Filled with knowledge that only comes from a life fully lived, The Correspondent is a gem of a novel about the power of finding solace in literature and connection with people we might never meet in person. It is about the hubris of youth and the wisdom of old age, and the mistakes and acts of kindness that occur during a lifetime.
Sybil Van Antwerp has throughout her life used letters to make sense of the world and her place in it. Most mornings, around half past ten, Sybil sits down to write letters—to her brother, to her best friend, to the president of the university who will not allow her to audit a class she desperately wants to take, to Joan Didion and Larry McMurtry to tell them what she thinks of their latest books, and to one person to whom she writes often yet never sends the letter.
Sybil expects her world to go on as it always has—a mother, grandmother, wife, divorcee, distinguished lawyer, she has lived a very full life. But when letters from someone in her past force her to examine one of the most painful periods of her life, she realizes that the letter she has been writing over the years needs to be read and that she cannot move forward until she finds it in her heart to offer forgiveness.
Sybil Van Antwerp’s life of letters might be “a very small thing,” but she also might be one of the most memorable characters you will ever read. (Synopsis courtesy of Amazon.)
Becky Gulc:
I noticed that this novel was heavily featured on many 'Best of 2025' lists so was keen to read this. I actually listened to the audio book of this one, part of a new year mission to listen to more books as well as read more!
I loved this book and it was so cleverly crafted to slowly allow us to get to know Sybil through her letter writing.
The book felt unique and whilst it covers loneliness and grief, it's also full of hope and connection in places you wouldn't expect. I wouldn't say Sybil radiates warmth, but as I came to understand her I warmed to her nonetheless, and there was a lovely arc to her story. I would definitely recommend this and thoroughly enjoyed the audiobook version with a range of actors playing the different parts who were all great.
Melissa Amster:
I had been interested in reading The Correspondent, as I heard so many great reviews. It really lived up to all the hype. I am so glad I finally got a chance to read it and now I can't stop thinking about and recommending it!
It's such a beautifully told story, written all through letters and emails. We get to know Sybil and some other significant people in her life this way. There are even some aspects that will keep readers guessing for a while. Although there are some sad parts, there are also a lot of hopeful and uplifting parts to balance things nicely. This story made me miss my pen pal days. Even though Sybil and I are many years apart, she was a relatable and sympathetic character.
The younger boy Sybil was corresponding with (Henry or Harry, I can't remember now) reminded me of Sheldon Cooper a bit, but probably because I am watching Young Sheldon now. I enjoyed Sybil's correspondence and connection with him, as well as her correspondence with the customer service representative. All the supporting characters were great though, even the ones who are set up to be unlikable initially.
I appreciate that the story took place in Maryland and that University of Maryland was mentioned a bunch of times.
There was one part I found slightly confusing, but don't want to say much as to not give anything away. It's something mathematical that didn't quite make sense when more of the situation was revealed.
This novel is perfect for fans of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. It also has a Fredrik Backman feel. It even reminded me of Up the Down Staircase by Bel Kaufman, which was written in letters and memos way back before email existed.
I don't have casting in mind for this one, but it would be fun to see what Hollywood could come up with as it would be a good movie if done right.
(Trigger warnings at the bottom of this post.)
Also by Virginia Evans: Within the Walled City
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Listen to this book on Speechify!
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TW: Death of child. Strained relationships. Loss of vision. Stalking. Miscarriages and infertility (mentioned briefly).
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