Exploring the Enduring Power of Letters in Dear Henry Love Edith by Becca Kinzer

Mikayla Young
Nov 13
7 min read

Welcome to a delightful exploration of "Dear Henry, Love Edith," a contemporary romantic comedy by Becca Kinzer. This heartwarming tale, published by Tyndale on January 31, 2023, invites readers into the lives of two seemingly mismatched characters, Edith and Henry, as they navigate the complexities of love, loss, and self-discovery. Set against the backdrop of a small Midwestern town, their unexpected connection unfolds through a series of charming letters that reveal their innermost thoughts and feelings. With themes of adventure and second chances, this novel promises to be a captivating read for anyone who enjoys a blend of humor and heartfelt romance. Join us as we delve into the book's synopsis, character development, and much more, perfect for book clubs and individual readers alike!

Book Information

Title: Dear Henry, Love Edith
Author: Becca Kinzer
Publisher: Tyndale
Publication Date: January 31, 2023
Genre: Contemporary, Romantic Comedy, Christian Fiction
Age Category: Adult, 18+
Format: Novel
Format Read in: Libby E-Book
Reading Challenges: Libby TBR, Debut Novel, Read Around the World - USA - Illinois (Author)

Book Synopsis

In "Dear Henry, Love Edith," a charming romantic comedy, two strangers—Edith and Henry—find themselves on an unexpected journey of love and self-discovery. Edith, recently widowed, has sworn off romance, planning instead to fill her life with adventure. However, her plans take a detour when she accepts a nursing job in a small Midwestern town and crosses paths with Henry. Henry, who initially believes Edith to be an elderly widow, reluctantly hosts her for the summer. Their mismatched schedules lead to a series of notes that evolve into heartfelt letters, revealing intimate truths about their lives. As Henry discovers the true identity of his pen pal, their lives become intertwined, forcing Edith to choose between her dreams of adventure and the love blossoming before her. This delightful tale, reminiscent of "You’ve Got Mail," is filled with mistaken identities, second chances, and laugh-out-loud moments, making it perfect for book clubs and anyone seeking a sweet, clean romantic comedy. Join Edith and Henry as they navigate the unexpected paths of love and adventure.

Rating and Review

My Rating ★★★☆☆ (3 Stars)

The characters in this story are well-developed, showcasing a range of personalities that feel both realistic and relatable. Their depth allows readers to forge connections with them, making the narrative all the more engaging. The two main characters, Edith and Henry, are particularly notable; they not only set the tone for the story but also infuse it with humor and realism through their relatable struggles, reflective moments, and clever banter. Their interactions are filled with warmth and wit, making it easy for readers to root for them as they navigate the ups and downs of their lives.

The settings throughout the book are vividly depicted, painting a clear picture in the reader's mind and making it easy to visualize the various locations that serve as backdrops for the characters' journeys. The author's immersive writing style draws readers into the narrative, allowing them to feel the emotions of the characters and journey alongside them as they face life's challenges. This connection is crucial, as it enhances the overall reading experience and makes the story feel personal and impactful.

The plot itself is engaging and realistic, presenting a heartwarming comedy that intertwines a subplot of romance. Throughout the narrative, there are numerous lessons woven into the fabric of the story, touching on themes such as love, self-discovery, grief, and the importance of moving forward after loss. The exploration of friendship and the act of helping others are also prominent, reminding readers that while the past shapes us, it is essential to embrace the present and look toward the future.

One of the standout elements of the story is the letter exchanges between Edith and Henry. These correspondences add a delightful layer to the plot, enriching both character and romance development. Through their written words, readers gain insight into their thoughts and feelings, allowing for a deeper understanding of their evolving relationship. This slow-burn romance, where pen pals gradually transform into friends and then lovers, is beautifully executed, capturing the nuances of their connection.

However, the plot does encounter some challenges, particularly with the miscommunication between Edith and Henry, which plays a significant role in the narrative. This aspect works effectively for the first half of the story, creating tension and intrigue. Yet, as the story progresses, this miscommunication begins to feel somewhat excessive and contrived, resembling an attempt at a plot twist that ultimately detracts from the overall development of both the plot and the characters. This shift can be frustrating for readers who are invested in the characters' journeys.

The pacing of the story is generally well-balanced, maintaining a medium tempo that allows for character development and plot progression. However, this changes dramatically in the final four to six chapters, where it feels as though the narrative is hastily accelerated, as if the author realized the need to bring the story to a close quickly. This sudden shift in pacing can leave readers feeling as though the conclusion was rushed, making the ending feel more like an afterthought rather than a carefully crafted resolution to the story's various arcs.

Despite these pacing issues and the quick wrap-up of the ending, "Dear Henry, Love Edith" remains a delightful comedy filled with lovable characters, realistic humor, and relatable struggles. The heartfelt journey of pen pals evolving into friends and eventually lovers provides a charming backdrop for the exploration of deeper themes, making it a worthwhile read for those who appreciate a blend of humor and romance in their literature.

Discussion Questions and Activities

Before Reading

What are your expectations for a romantic comedy? List three elements you believe are essential for a story in this genre.
Create a mood board that reflects your interpretation of love and adventure. Use images, colors, and words that inspire you.
Discuss with a partner: What are your favorite romantic comedies, and what makes them memorable for you?
Write a short paragraph predicting the plot based on the book's title and cover. What themes do you think will be explored?
List five qualities you think are important in a romantic partner. How might these qualities play a role in the characters' relationships?
Identify a song that you believe captures the essence of a romantic adventure. Share it with the group and explain your choice.

During Reading

As you read each letter exchanged between Edith and Henry, jot down your thoughts on how their relationship evolves. What emotions do these letters evoke?
Illustrate a scene from the book that particularly resonates with you. Use any medium (drawing, painting, digital art) to express your interpretation.
Pause after each chapter and write a brief letter from Edith to a friend about her experiences and feelings. What would she share at that moment?
Create a character map that outlines the relationships between Edith, Henry, and other key characters. Note any changes in these relationships as the story progresses.
Choose a quote from the book that stands out to you. Analyze its meaning and how it relates to the overall themes of the story.
Write a diary entry from Henry's perspective after a significant event in the story. How does he feel about his relationship with Edith?

After Reading

Consider the themes of love and self-discovery. Write a personal essay, paragraph, or reflections about a time when you experienced personal growth through a relationship.
Create a scrapbook page dedicated to Edith and Henry. Include quotes, images, and symbols that represent their journey.
Host a discussion group with friends. Use the thought-provoking questions listed above to guide your conversation about the book.
Write your own letter to a fictional pen pal, sharing your thoughts on love and adventure. What lessons have you learned that you would want to pass on?
Design an alternate ending for the story. How would you change the conclusion, and what impact would it have on the characters?
Create a timeline of key events in Edith and Henry's relationship. What moments were pivotal in their journey together?
Discuss the role of secondary characters in the story. How did they influence the main characters' relationship and growth?

About the Author

Becca Kinzer, a critical care nurse based in Springfield, Illinois, is devoted to her patients while balancing her passion for writing. Known for her humor-filled storytelling, she authored the award-winning debut novel "Dear Henry, Love Edith" and "Love in Tandem." Raised in Kewanee, Illinois, Becca's love for writing began with a childhood journal gift. Her admiration for actor Jimmy Stewart and a memorable tandem bike trip with her husband highlight her personal life. With a rich nursing career spanning burn care to ICU specialties, Becca's journey is inspired by a Civil War miniseries. She embraces humor in her profession and shares a deep affection for her dog. Engaging with readers through social media and her newsletter, Becca continues to blend her nursing expertise with her storytelling talent.

Where to Buy the Book

You can find Dear Henry, Love Edith at various retailers, both online and in physical stores. Here are several options:

Conclusion

"Dear Henry, Love Edith" by Becca Kinzer is a charming and heartfelt romantic comedy that captures the essence of love, loss, and the journey of self-discovery. Through the engaging correspondence between Edith and Henry, readers are treated to a delightful exploration of their evolving relationship, filled with humor and relatable struggles. While the narrative does experience some pacing issues and moments of miscommunication, the overall warmth and authenticity of the characters shine through, making this novel a worthwhile read for fans of the genre.

Whether you're seeking a light-hearted escape or a story that resonates with deeper themes, this book offers both. It's perfect for book clubs and individual readers alike, encouraging discussions about love, adventure, and personal growth. As you embark on this journey with Edith and Henry, you may find yourself reflecting on your own experiences and the connections that shape your life. So, grab a copy and immerse yourself in this delightful tale of unexpected romance and second chances!