As I read The Shipping News by Annie Proulx, I wasn't expecting to have an experience as interesting as the one I had. The book starts with a witty yet somewhat dark description of the protagonist, Quoyle. He suffers through a whirlwind of tragedies including his wife’s repeated unfaithfulness, his parent’s joint suicide, and an unsuccessful career. Throughout the book, it felt like Proulx was making fun of Quoyle’s misery and I was shocked to see how casually she treated the tragic events in his life. After the sudden death of his wife, he moves to Newfoundland with his two kids and his aunt in an attempt to move on from the past, discover his roots, and find happiness. Quoyle’s discontent is overwhelmingly present throughout the book, and due to Proulx’s blunt description of his life, it’s almost as though readers are encouraged to feel sorry for him. Initially, I read this book for an assignment in my literature class, thinking I’d have to force myself to get through it. However, I was surprised by how interesting the book was to read. I probably wouldn’t have chosen this book at first glance. Still, I’m glad I read it as it perfectly emphasizes the presence of past demons, their effect on Quoyle’s contentment, and finally, his eventual discovery of “true happiness”. Proulx unconventionally demonstrates how one must move on from the past to accept happiness in the present. I’d recommend this book to people who aren’t afraid to try new genres and step outside their comfort zone, as it requires a bit of patience at first but, ultimately, it’s a worthwhile read.