My Name Is Lucy Barton

novel by Strout

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July 21, 2026

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My Name Is Lucy Barton is a 2016 novel by Elizabeth Strout. It is the first in a series of five novels focusing on Lucy Barton, a writer from the fictional rural community of Amgash, Illinois. The novel begins with Lucy hospitalized and unexpectedly visited by her estranged mother. During this time, Lucy reflects on her difficult childhood and examines her present life. The book is known for its intimate, conversational tone that draws readers into Lucy's experiences. The novel was later adapted for stage and performed in London and on Broadway.12

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Elizabeth Strout
Lucy Barton novels
The character first appears in My Name Is Lucy Barton (2016). Hospitalized with a life-threatening infection, Lucy is unexpectedly visited by her mother, whom she has not seen in years. Over the ensuing days, Lucy reflects on her difficult childhood in rural Amgash, Illinois, while examining her current life. The…
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The character first appears in My Name Is Lucy Barton (2016). Hospitalized with a life-threatening infection, Lucy is unexpectedly visited by her mother, whom she has not seen in years. Over the ensuing days, Lucy reflects on her difficult childhood in rural Amgash, Illinois, while examining her current life. The…
Read More