The Burgess Boys by Elizabeth Strout

The Burgess Boys by Elizabeth Strout is a nuanced portrait of family loyalty, guilt, and small-town tensions.
 
When a teenage prank in a small Maine town spirals into a public controversy, two brothers return home to defend their nephew—forcing them to confront long-buried secrets and the childhood tragedy that shaped them both.
 
💖 Why You’ll Love It
Deeply layered exploration of sibling relationships
Thoughtful look at guilt, responsibility, and redemption
Rich small-town atmosphere with contemporary relevance
Elegant, character-driven literary storytelling
 
🌟 Perfect For
Fans of reflective literary fiction
Book clubs exploring family dynamics and social tension
Readers who appreciate nuanced emotional conflicts
Those who loved My Name Is Lucy Barton
 
Jim and Bob Burgess grew up in the shadow of a tragic accident that defined their childhood and shaped the men they became. Now living far from their Maine hometown, they are called back when their sister’s son is accused of committing a culturally charged act that ignites community outrage.
 
As the brothers attempt to manage the legal fallout, they must also confront unresolved family tensions, buried resentments, and the lingering weight of the past. With compassion and sharp psychological insight, Elizabeth Strout crafts a moving story about loyalty, shame, and the fragile ties that bind families together.