Customer Reviews

Ourselves To Know

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The central character of this novel, Robert Millhouser, is introduced to the reader when he is already an old man. To the narrator of his life story, Gerald Higgins, Robert Millhouser was a figure surrounded by mystery. His salutations to Gerald's grandparents were always given and received with courtesy but the young Gerald's curious questions about this dignified but isolated man were never answered. Many years later Gerald visits Robert and begins to write his story. A past era unfolds. The story is set in Pennsylvania and as the story of Robert Millhouser is told, much of the history of this state and its migrants is brought to life. Robert Millhouser's life is revealed, through conversations and letters. His inability to make close friends, his naivety in one particular friendship, his marriage to a girl so much younger than himself all culminate in one event which totally isolates him from all but two loyal servants. The other interesting aspect of the novel is that Gerald's maturing character is also shown. I liked the book but strangely enough as the story progressed I realised that I didn't really like the main characters. They were all interesting in their complexities but there was a coldness which at times was almost repellant. Yet I have read this novel twice, quite recently. Read it if you are interested in personalities and behaviour, and also if you enjoy the history and way of life of a past era.

The book came within the time frame given at purchase, and came in the condition stated in it's description.