Peck & Peck

When I picked up Peck & Peck, I was hoping to find a character similar to Elizabeth Zott. However, I soon realized that Batter Gray is quite different; he challenges the norm, but quietly and in a more subtle, conventional way. Once I realized he was his own person, I found him endearing. He is a little awkward, but he stands by his values and remains true to himself.

I also loved his mother, who is a unique type designer. Her quirky advice and standout personality add warmth to the story. Their bond adds depth, and anyone who enjoyed Lessons in Chemistry will appreciate how Garmus excels at creating unforgettable characters, including memorable parents and delightful pets.

Garmus also creates an amazing supporting cast. The feuding Peck twins, the thirty-nine fiercely opinionated editors, and the parolees running the mailroom make Peck & Peck feel like a world of its own. But I must admit, some of these characters were a little too over-the-top for me. And the slower, more literary pacing also required patience, especially early on. But as the many threads came together, I realized how carefully Garmus had built this ensemble, and the payoff was well worth it.

In the end, I loved this book. It is funny, big-hearted, and a genuine love letter to poetry and to people who refuse to give in to conformity. Peck & Peck is different from Lessons in Chemistry - quieter and more reflective, but it has the same sharp wit and the same affection for misfits who refuse to give up on what they care about. Readers who give Batter the time to win them over will be glad they did.