NEW YORK – For her next book club pick, Oprah Winfrey is highlighting an author she has praised even before she had a book club.
Winfrey has announced that she picked Wally Lamb’s newest novel, “The River Is Waiting,” which tells the story of a father struggling with grief and guilt. This marks the third occasion Winfrey has chosen a book by Lamb, demonstrating a connection that goes back to before 1996 when she first launched her book club.
Lamb recalled having had four phone conversations with Winfrey. He mentioned how she phoned to commend his debut novel, “She’s Come Undone,” when it was published in 1992. Then, five years later, she called again to inform him that “She’s Come Undone” was her latest book club selection. In 1998, Winfrey picked Lamb’s second novel, “I Know This Much Is True.”
Reflecting on the recent phone call from Winfrey, Lamb expressed his surprise at hearing her voice after twenty-seven years. She informed him that his latest novel, ‘The River Is Waiting,’ would be the 115th book chosen for her esteemed Book Club. Lamb admitted to feeling grateful for the opportunities he has received and aims to show his appreciation by treating others kindly every day.
Winfrey’s conversation with Lamb can be heard on the latest episode of “Oprah’s Book Club: Presented by Starbucks,” a podcast available through Winfrey’s YouTube channel and other outlets.
“I know many of you might remember that Wally and I go way back because I picked his very first book in 1997 for my book club, and then I chose his second book the next year,” Winfrey said in a statement. “And now with ‘The River Is Waiting’ – we’ve selected three novels by the same author and that should tell you ALL you need to know about what I think of this truly masterful and beloved writer.”
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