The Accidental Tourist: A Novel

I have seen the delightful film adaptation many times and always enjoyed it, so recently while laid up with the flu, I thought I'd read the book and see what Tyler's actual style was like.
I think had I not seen the film, I would have walked away with a very different take on Macon Leary, who I had always perceived as a kind, muted man barely coping with the senseless death of his only child. Perhaps my own mood colored my reading, but Leary seemed unpleasantly selfish, particularly in his relation to the delightful and loving Muriel, who gives him a new lease on life.
In the end, I preferred the movie, but enjoyed the book nevertheless.

I loved this book. I think everyone is a accidental tourist at some point in their lifetime. . Muriel is Macon,s life line. I of all the characters in this book, I would like to know more about her. She stays true to herself no matter what.

Anne Tyler always writes the kind of book you wish would never end. It's always sad to say goodbye to the characters, especially since they're never brought back in later novels. A fantastic, empathetic storyteller.

I was so surprised. This book had so many glowing reviews. So I boought it at one of Amazaon's great low price. I had the hardest time getting into it. I am an avid read and no matter how bad a book is I am going to finish it. This was almost the 1st exception to that rulle. It was very hard to keep up with who was talking and to who they we talking to or where they ever where. She really missed the mark on this one for. me.

I just finished The Accidental Tourist. I want to state that I have never seen the movie, so I had no idea what to expect. First, I want to say the the writing is wonderful! You can really get a feel for his personality through her writing style. My Lord, was he FRUSTRATING!!! I'm not very good at these reviews but I would definitely recommend this book. Near the end, I was very disappointed in him. I wish it was longer, meaning I wish the story didn't end where it did. I don't think I want to see the movie for fear it will ruin the book.

A more than pleasant diversion
Lightweight but with depth

I needed something while travelling and this was just right. It wasn't challenging but it was engrossing. The story flowed convincingly and the characters were well constructed and their actions believable. The eccentricities of the family and the foibles of Muriel (and Edward, the dog) are wryly amusing and the combined quirkiness of all the characters drew you in to their benighted lives.

Touching, funny ... just a good old fashioned nice read ... lightweight enough to disappear into but well written enough to hold you captive (even if I wasn't fussed about the ending)!

Winner of the National Book Critics Circle Award in 1985

Anne Tyler has writtenm a wonderful engrossing satorff filled with fascinating people.
And, wonders of wonders,. she tells of a man who is not a vacuous, passive, cipher of life.
At least in the last pages.

I reviewed this book on January 21, based on material read on the store, Today, January 22nd, I received the book. I am returning the book for personal reasons, but ordering a new copy at a later date after having explored Ms. Tyler's other writing.

My review stands:

I just discovered this writer, and look forward to reading her other novels.

If you're a writer, learn from her!

I was disappointed in the book, though Anne Tyler writes well, I was disappointed at the lack of character in Macon. He was week the entire book, and in the end, though Tyler tries to make the final decision look as if he finally has a spine, he fails. There is not redeeming value in his decisions, no hope, no future and no moral values. I would not recommend the book.