Who Would Like This Book:
Brady Udall's "The Lonely Polygamist" is that rare blend of big-hearted humor and biting tragedy, wrapping you up in the chaotic, utterly absorbing world of Golden Richards - a husband to four wives and father of 28 kids. The novel’s multi-POV approach (father, wife, child) goes deep into the emotional messiness and comic absurdities of family life, making even this unconventional setup relatable and oddly universal. If you like sprawling family sagas, nuanced characters, and novels that balance laugh-out-loud moments with real pathos, you’ll love this one. Fans of John Irving, Richard Russo, or even TV shows like "Big Love" will find plenty here to enjoy, as will anyone interested in stories about belonging and the search for connection in unlikely places.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers found this novel way too lengthy, with a plot that meanders and (sometimes) sags under the weight of too many subplots and characters. If you crave fast-paced stories, deep dives into every single character, or need to truly love your protagonist, you might find yourself frustrated - Golden can be passive and unlikeable at times, and not everyone connects with his struggle. Those who prefer short, punchy reads or find little fascination in alternative lifestyles or large-family dynamics might feel bogged down or disconnected. And if you’re hoping for a profound reevaluation of polygamy or a "happily ever after," this book may land too heavy or sad for your taste.
About:
'The Lonely Polygamist' by Brady Udall is a novel that delves into the complex life of Golden Richards, a Mormon with four wives and more than twenty children. The story explores Golden's struggles with loneliness, his attempts to escape from the weight of his responsibilities, and the intricate dynamics within his large family. Through well-drawn characters and engaging storytelling, the novel navigates themes of family relationships, individual desires, and the challenges of polygamous lifestyle.
Udall's writing style in 'The Lonely Polygamist' is described as humorous, touching, and relatable. The book offers a glimpse into the lives of the characters, portraying their emotions authentically and showcasing a wide range of human experiences. Despite the intricate family tree and initially slow pace, Udall's storytelling skills pull the reader through the narrative, revealing a tale that is both engaging and thought-provoking.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include themes of grief, loss of children, and the emotional toll of polygamy, which may be sensitive for some readers.
Has Romance?
While romance is present primarily through Golden's affair with Huila, it plays a complex role in the narrative, contributing to personal conflicts and thematic depth.
From The Publisher:
Golden Richards is a normal dad. But with four wives and twenty eight children there just isn't enough of him to go around. Unbeknownst to his wives, Golden has taken a construction job on a Nevada brothel. Lying to cover his tracks, beset by familial rivalry on all sides, he seeks relief in the arms of his boss's wife.To put it simply this is the story of a polygamist who has an affair. But there is much more to it than that. Generous, wise and moving The Lonely Polygamist is a bittersweet tale of family, love and belonging.
Ratings (4)
Incredible (1) | |
Loved It (3) |
Reader Stats (10):
Read It (4) | |
Want To Read (3) | |
Not Interested (3) |
1 comment(s)
I really enjoyed this book. Unlike some of the other novels that I have read about polygamy in the states this didn't really feel like it had an axe to grind at all. Religion didn't strongly feature in the story at all. It was there, but not as the main thrust of the story. In fact you are well into the story before the word Mormon even gets mentioned.
The story is about a family that is in crisis, just happens to me a polygamy family. The story is also told from different points of view. You have the view of Golden the father. He quite clearly loves all his children (28 of them), and his wives, (4 of them), although you get the feeling that he feels like somewhere along the line he has lost control of his life. It happens to him, and at the moment not happening in a great way! Secrets are being kept by everyone, himself included and he is worried about what he will lose when the house of cards comes crumbling down.
We also have the story from wife number 4s POV. She was born into a polyg family, left as a child and then has ended up back in one as a wife. She doesn't dislike it at all, although she doesn't like living in a different house from the other wives, but that is one of the problems in this family. She wants the business of the polyg family. She want to feel a part of something.
Then there is Rusty, one of the children. A somewhat problem child, but with 28 children his problems are just seen as being odd and he needs to sort himself out, rather than having the time to actually sit with him and listen!
Of course the house of cards does come crumbling down, and you can see that it is going to happen, what you can't see is whether Golden is going to step up and lead the family through the crisis.
What can you read after
The Lonely Polygamist?
About the Author:
Brady Udall is the author of the highly-praised Letting Loose the Hounds, The Lonely Polygamist and The Miracle Life of Edgar Mint.
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