I was just shuddering at the end, and I had to cry for a while, in the way of seeing a masterpiece come to a close. This is a great novel. I am rapturous in my praise. Hilarious, heart-breaking, full of humanity. I love Walter most of all, but Patty too. If I had a criticism, the are too privileged to truly represent mainstream America, a separation of 6 years seemed a bit far-fetched, Joey's character change never completely makes sense to me. But Walter's rants! Yes Walter, yes! This would be a great book to discuss in a class, as it is full of little nuggets. It is quite long however.