Arthur was a man who found solace and self-expression in the creation of lists. Even when deciding to adopt their dog, Olly, Arthur’s method of decision was to put all the pros and cons onto a list. At first, Arthur’s note seems a serendipitous or random occurrence: Mabel finds the scrap of paper on the floor by the dining table while she wanders in a daze of grief. The note is confusing. Was it meant for her to find? Was it a reminder Arthur made for himself, one of many tasks forever to be left undone?
Most importantly, what does “D” stand for? Is it a person or a thing? Desperately grasping for meaning in everything her husband left behind, Mabel even asks, “Why the capital letter?”
Mabel’s Motley Crew
The book’s emotional resonance is heightened by its cast of relatable, flawed, yet profoundly human characters, including the supporting ones who, far from being a mere backdrop to Mabel’s story, are fully fleshed-out individuals. As part of Mabel’s re-emergence into the land of the living, their natural interactions with Mabel enrich the novel, adding layers of depth and perspective to its central themes.Starting on this quest to reconnect with her long-lost friend Dot after more than 60 years enables Mabel to tentatively, gradually interact with others in her efforts to manage her new life as a widow. These encounters introduce us to an eclectic and lively group of characters—each with unique stories, challenges, and a different age bracket to represent.
For instance, feeling overwhelmed by the responsibility of caring for her dog alone, Mabel asks a neighbor, Kirsty (the same one with the infant named Dotty), to consider adopting Olly. Kirsty deflects by suggesting she take Olly for a walk to test their compatibility. Unexpectedly, the scenario proves successful. Instead of giving up her dog, Mabel makes a new friend, and Olly gains a reliable dog walker.
Finding Grace and Humor Through Loss
“The Last List of Mabel Beaumont” gives a nuanced exploration of personal loss and grief while searching for joy. Mabel’s journey, marked by her interactions and the gradual unfolding of her own story, reveals her undeniable strength of spirit. Her compelling voice is filled with the kind of insight that can only come from a life well-lived and deeply felt.Mabel’s sadness, observing that the “house feels different when he’s not in it,” is a moment of experienced loss that anyone can relate to. She notes that even the household belongings seem to settle ”and wait, like a breath held” for his return.
However, Ms. Pearson skillfully avoids becoming overly sentimental or mawkish when highlighting unexpected moments of connection or joy. It’s a balance many of Mabel’s reflections achieve, often leaving readers laughing.
Laura Pearson’s Wide Literary Lens
Ms. Pearson’s novels cover a variety of themes and subject matter, as seen in her mystery novel, “Missing Pieces,” based on the popular video game, “Hello Neighbor.” She consistently showcases her skill in probing human emotions and relationships across genres.
