Book Review: The River Is Waiting by Wally Lamb
Run, don’t walk, to pick up The River Is Waiting—Wally Lamb’s heart-wrenching return after nine years! As soon as I saw that Lamb had a new book set to release in June 2025, my excitement surged like a tidal wave. For those unfamiliar, Lamb is a masterful storyteller who fearlessly tackles tough subjects, and with this novel, he doesn’t hold back. I dove into The River Is Waiting and, let me tell you, it took just two days to read—before I knew it, I was left craving more, both of the story and of Lamb’s brilliant prose.
At its heart, the novel revolves around Corby, a devoted husband and father of twins, whose seemingly idyllic suburban life unravels after a tragic event catapults him into the harsh reality of Yates Correctional Prison. I initially hesitated to pick this up because of its intense themes, including the American prison system and the specter of loss. Yet, as I’ve learned over the years, when Wally Lamb writes, I simply can’t resist; he has an extraordinary ability to evoke empathy and explore the human condition.
As we follow Corby through the clattering chaos of prison life—navigating relationships with inmates and correctional officers, as well as battling inner demons—Lamb delves into profound questions of forgiveness, identity, and resilience. The characters are richly drawn and unforgettable. There’s Emily, Corby’s wife, grappling with her own decisions about their future; Manny, Corby’s poignant bunkmate, whose kindness shines through the shadows of confinement; and others who embody the stark realities of the prison system.
Lamb’s writing is, as always, both lyrical and engaging. He seamlessly weaves together Corby’s heartbreaking inner world with the harsh exterior of prison life. I often found myself immersed in the visceral descriptions of the environment—food that I could almost taste and muffled sounds that echoed within my own thoughts. Every page felt like peeling back layers of an onion, revealing raw emotion that kept me craving more.
One of the standout themes for me was the question of rehabilitation versus punishment. Lamb poignantly illustrates that our justice system often fails the very individuals it’s meant to help. His real-life experiences working with female inmates lend authenticity to the narrative, allowing him to expose systemic issues with a nuanced lens. As I read, I was often left pondering my own values around forgiveness and justice. Would I leave my husband? How would I cope with such loss? This internal dialogue made my reading experience not just engaging but deeply personal.
I was fortunate to receive an ARC from NetGalley and Simon, and I wholeheartedly believe The River Is Waiting will spark discussions in book clubs and classrooms alike, shining a light on complex questions of morality and forgiveness. If you’re intrigued by stories that challenge your views while tugging at your heart, this book is definitely for you.
In conclusion, Wally Lamb has crafted yet another masterpiece filled with emotional depth and compelling characters. If you’re ready for a reading experience that will stay with you long after turning the last page, mark your calendars for June 2025. The River Is Waiting is a book the world needs, and so do you.
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