During his literary career, Kent Haruf wrote extraordinary and engaging novels that readers could enjoy because the stories and their characters were comfortable and easily understood. His books are set in fictional Holt, Colorado, a town based in part on his experiences in Yuma, Colorado. His first novel, THE TIES THAT BIND, was published in 1984. Fifteen years passed until the publication of his second, PLAINSONG. That book became a bestseller and was a National Book Award finalist. BENEDICTION, EVENTIDE and WHERE YOU ONCE BELONGED continued the portrayal of life in the contemporary small-town west.

Sadly, in November 2014, Haruf passed away at the age of 71. But he left readers a gift: his final novel, OUR SOULS AT NIGHT. Haruf was aware of the lung illness that would take his life. He told his wife, Cathy, that for his final project “I’m going to write a book about us.” Few readers will actually know that the book is based on the Harufs’ relationship, but those who read it will enjoy a short, moving story about a man and woman who are blessed to find love late in their lives. This is a novel that one reads all too quickly and, upon reaching the conclusion, fervently wishes there was more to read. Knowing that Haruf has penned his final novel makes the story even more poignant.

"OUR SOULS AT NIGHT is a fitting conclusion to a remarkable writing career.... a beautiful, simple and direct story that should be on everyone’s summer reading list. It will not take you long to read, but it will live with you forever."

OUR SOULS AT NIGHT begins simply enough. Addie Moore, a 70-year-old widow, invites her neighbor, widower Louis Waters, to her house. She has an offer for Louis: “I wonder if you would consider coming to my house some times to sleep with me.” The proposal contemplates nothing more than occasional companionship and talking. As Addie observes, “I’m talking about getting through the night. And lying warm in bed, companionably.” The nights are the worst, Addie observes, and Louis agrees. After some thought, he accepts the offer. In the beginning, he comes to her house carrying his toothbrush and pajamas in a paper bag. But the relationship grows, for good and bad --- and like many of the relationships and portrayals in Haruf’s novels, readers come to care greatly about the characters whose lives are depicted on these pages.

Addie and Louis know each other in Holt, but in most respects they are strangers. A great portion of the book takes place in their shared bed where they discuss their lives and the good and bad memories that transpired in their previous lives. As they share those memories, their relationship grows and new bonds are formed. Addie and Louis are real people, nearing the end of their lives, but enjoying each day that they still share.

Their new life expands beyond their own relationship when Addie’s grandson comes to live with her. Louis tentatively joins the relationship, and the young boy’s response expands Louis’ life and strengthens the bond between him and Addie. In almost every respect, Addie and Louis are like a young couple sharing the joy of beginning a life together and having a child.

OUR SOULS AT NIGHT is a fitting conclusion to a remarkable writing career. I suspect that the book will live on as many readers will identify with the issues presented. It is a beautiful, simple and direct story that should be on everyone’s summer reading list. It will not take you long to read, but it will live with you forever.