This novel, written by RiCHARD YATES, was nominated for the National Book Award in 1961.  Of course, it was made into an academy-honored film this past year which I saw.  I prefer reading the book before the film, but this time I saw the film first.  The book was excellent, portraying a young suburban couple whose dreams are shattered by the ennui of living in the suburbs. It is an honest, accurate story about how married life and the hopes and dreams of an exciting future can get shattered as everyday life sets in and the possibility of REALLY LIVING becomes second rank. 

The book was turned into this fantastic film whose screenplay was taken almost verbatim from the novel.  In the book, the lead male character, Frank Wheeler, comes across as much nicer and more sympathetic than in the movie.  April Wheeler, his spouse, is the selfish wife who we still feel sorry for. The story was written well before its time and though it takes place in the early 60s, it could have been an example of present day.  The emotions are so raw, gripping, human and true to life.  It has a tragic ending and parts of it reminded me of my own marriage; not necessarily saying I'm unhappy, but that all marriages go through boredom and we get settled into reality and everyday living. 

I highly recomend this very well written novel.  Yates simply "gets it" and is to be commended in his fine writing skills.  It's classic, timeless, and FORCES one to think about sacrificing their dreams for the good of the family.