The Funeral Ladies of Ellerie County by Claire Swinarski

*** Review ***

Claire Swinarski’s The Funeral Ladies of Ellerie County invites readers on a heartwarming journey through the Northwoods of Wisconsin, where three generations of Larson women navigate life’s challenges armed with a Crock-Pot, cherished recipes, and an unyielding sense of community.

At its core, the novel revolves around Esther Larson, a matriarch with seventy years of experience cooking for funerals. Local legend has it that the “funeral ladies” can heal any sorrow with a warm casserole and a slice of cherry pie. However, when Esther falls victim to an internet scam, her granddaughter, Iris, steps up to help, intertwining their lives with a mysterious young man named Cooper Welsh.

The beauty of the story lies not only in the intricacies of the characters but also in the vivid portrayal of the Northwoods of Wisconsin. As a fellow Midwesterner, the author’s attention to detail, from the mention of specific city names to the nod to quintessential Wisconsin elements like Kwik Trip, Spotted Cow, and Culver’s, resonates deeply. These subtle references showcase an authentic connection to the region, adding a layer of appreciation for the narrative.

The character development is another strength of Swinarski’s storytelling. Esther emerges as the quintessential grandmother figure, stern yet warm, and her recipes become a central thread weaving through the generations. The distinct personalities of the Larson women, spanning three generations, add richness and depth to the narrative. The conflict between the generations, particularly the contrast between Gen Z and the baby boomer era, reflects the societal shifts in an internet-based world.

The novel’s unexpected charm lies in its exploration of complex family dynamics and the small-town life of Ellerie County. The funeral ladies, with their can-do spirit, exemplify the resilience of Midwestern communities. The author skillfully weaves deep issues into the fabric of the story, touching on topics like PTSD, emotional relationship abuse, cancer, alcoholism, death, and grief. These themes provide a poignant backdrop, adding layers of complexity to the seemingly simple narrative.

However, it’s worth noting that the extensive discussion of PTSD may be challenging for some readers. The emotional weight of the subject matter, coupled with trigger warnings for various sensitive topics, might be a consideration for those seeking a lighter read. Yet, the author handles these themes with care, offering a balanced mix of deep exploration and uplifting moments.

One of the standout elements is the inclusion of recipes, elevating the connection between food and emotion in the novel. Esther’s culinary wisdom becomes a source of comfort, bridging generational gaps and serving as a testament to the power of tradition in a rapidly changing world.

As a reader, I found myself conflicted, much like the protagonist, Iris. While I reveled in the camaraderie of the funeral ladies and their resilience, the weight of PTSD and other heavy themes left me torn. Esther, with her charisma and culinary prowess, emerged as a favorite character, embodying the timeless wisdom of grandmothers.

In conclusion, The Funeral Ladies of Ellerie County is a delightful blend of heartwarming storytelling, culinary enchantment, and exploration of complex familial bonds. Claire Swinarski succeeds in crafting a narrative that feels both nostalgic and relevant, offering readers a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of small-town life. This novel is a testament to the enduring power of community, tradition, and, of course, a well-cooked casserole.