I think I had set my expectations too high for this book after having read the delightful and touching "Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe". "Can't Wait to Get to Heaven" struck me as repetitive and clichéd, and simply silly. The winning formula that Fanny Flagg discovered with Idgie Threadgoode was overly exploited in the case of sweet Mrs Elner Shimfissle. I lost count of how many times the story was retold to the residents of Elmwood about how sweet old Elner had fallen off the ladder again. What would they do without her?

The book was filled with explanations that were made dull by the overuse of the pluperfect tense, and with superfluous dialogue. I began skim-reading quite early on, continuing out of curiosity to see what would happen in the plot. However, the only thing that interested me was realizing that the author was actually basing the story on a well-known miracle from the Bible (Luke Chapter 9, I think). I'd better not say more about the biblical miracle as I don't want to spoil it for the many people who are likely to enjoy this book and find it humorous, helpful, realistic, or anecdotal, all of which it probably is. It reminded me of the film "Steel Magnolias", which I think is really good. But the eccentric rural/small town Americans of a certain generation seem overly exaggerated in this particular Fannie Flagg book, just like the bird-shooting husband was in "Steel Magnolias". I do realize that I know nothing about life in a small town in America; I'm just reporting my reaction to the book.

I can understand why Julie Myerson in The Guardian describes the story as "oozing with goodness and charm", but I certainly couldn't follow the Daily Mail's advice to use a hankie as a bookmark. But then I'm probably turning into one of those grumpy old women that sweet old Elner Shimfissle sorts out, both before and after she falls out of the fig tree. And there's that fig tree - that's from the Bible too. I remember someone cursed it.

Mostly a waste of time,

as the story seems to lack a real purpose.

However, the small-town social structure was amusing at times,

offering some light entertainment.

Yet, the ideas about heaven presented do not line up with Biblical teaching.

This is a significant flaw, as it goes against the core beliefs of many.

The author's attitude towards this, not caring if she misleads with the 'all roads lead to heaven' theme,

is quite concerning.

It makes one question the integrity of the work and its potential impact on readers.

Overall, while there may be some moments of entertainment,

the fundamental issues with the content make it a rather unfulfilling read.

It fails to provide a meaningful exploration of important topics and instead seems to play fast and loose with religious and moral concepts.

This leaves the reader feeling dissatisfied and perhaps even a bit misled.

A sweet and engaging book revolves around Elner Shimfissle, a remarkable ninety-something-year-old woman. One fateful day, she falls out of her fig tree after being stung by a swarm of wasps. This seemingly simple incident sets off a chain of events with far-reaching and sometimes uproariously hilarious consequences.

As the story gracefully unfolds, readers are granted a peek into the lives of nearly every person involved. It becomes evident just how much of an impact one kind-hearted woman can have on an entire community.

I truly relished this book. However, I must admit that the part where she was in heaven struck me as a bit odd. Nevertheless, all things considered, it was a thoroughly enjoyable and light-hearted read. Oh, and it would be beneficial if you have previously read "Standing in the Rainbow" as it provides more in-depth background information on some of the characters, enhancing the overall reading experience.

Heartwarming and laugh-out-loud funny!

This is a truly delightful exploration of how the influence of each individual can be far greater than they could ever imagine and mean so much more to others than they might ever know, simply by being true to themselves.

We are also treated to a little peek into a version of Heaven that you've likely never dreamed of, and the southern charm that pervades the entire novel is simply enchanting.

Let us all strive to be a positive influence, just like Elner Shimfissle... :)

Recommended by a co-worker, I'm so glad I took the initiative and actually read it! It has been a wonderful and engaging experience that has left me with a warm heart and a smile on my face.

The story not only entertains but also teaches us valuable lessons about the power of being ourselves and the impact we can have on those around us.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a heartwarming and humorous read that will leave them feeling uplifted and inspired.

Fannie Flagg's light-hearted story is a charming exploration of the lives of Elner and her family and friends in Elwood Spring.

It delves into the question of what life is truly about.

To some extent, it shows how one life can have a profound impact on others.

This unexpected pleasure was discovered in a free little library during a Saturday walkabout.

The story likely weaves together the joys, sorrows, and everyday moments of the characters, painting a vivid picture of life in a small town.

Perhaps it reveals the power of kindness, the importance of community, and the beauty that can be found in the simplest of things.

As readers, we are invited to step into Elwood Spring and experience the warmth and humanity that Flagg so skillfully portrays.

It is a reminder that our lives are interconnected and that even the smallest actions can have a ripple effect on those around us.

This story is a delightful escape that leaves us with a sense of hope and a greater appreciation for the beauty of life.

I only picked up this book because it was one of the few books written in English in the hotel book swap. I recalled reading several Fannie Flagg books years ago, especially Fried Green Tomatoes. However, I had forgotten what a great storyteller she is!

This book is extremely easy to read and difficult to put down. It is both funny and warm. The main character, Elner, essentially shows us that people are more important than things and that we should enjoy life! As is often the case, there is a dark turn towards the end, but it's always the quiet ones! I adore the little twists.

It's just a charming old-fashioned read that leaves you with a contented sigh and makes you plan a move to Elmwood Springs! This book truly takes you on a wonderful journey through the lives of its characters, making you laugh, cry, and ultimately feel a sense of satisfaction. Fannie Flagg has once again proven herself to be a master storyteller, and I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a heartwarming and enjoyable read.

I could happily reread any Fannie Flagg novel. After a suitable interlude, I delved into this one for the second time with keen enjoyment.

The setting is the fictional town of Elmwood Springs. I continue to marvel at the author's ability to capture small town life without ever having lived in one!

Here, she takes a light-hearted look at life after death. She describes it as everyone's fantasy: youth and health restored, loved ones waiting with open arms, all your questions answered, and great food!

Throughout the book, there are many humorous moments. It's no wonder Fannie Flagg is loved by so many readers, including me. Her writing style is engaging and her stories are filled with heart and humor.

Rereading this novel was like visiting an old friend. I was able to pick up on details I missed the first time and gain a deeper appreciation for the story.

I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a light-hearted and enjoyable read. It will make you laugh, cry, and think about life in a whole new way.

This is a somewhat dull book.

At the end, it kind of improved a little bit, but still, it's just so-so.

It lacks the excitement and engaging elements that would make it a truly great read.

The story seems to drag on in some parts, and the characters don't really come to life in a vivid way.

However, it does have its moments, and those who are patient enough might find some small pleasures within its pages.

Overall, it's not a terrible book, but it's also not one that I would highly recommend.

It's just an average read that might pass the time, but not much more than that.

Perhaps with a little more effort and creativity, the author could have turned this into a more memorable and enjoyable piece of work.

As it stands now, it's just a forgettable addition to the literary world.

I was initially slow to get into the book. However, once I began, I was truly struck by the remarkable wit and humor that it contained.

The characters within the story are all brimming with southern charm. They are a little on the quirky side, which has the effect of transporting you back in time to a more leisurely pace when life was uncomplicated.

The setting is a small country town in Missouri. In this town, families grew up and lived next door to the same people for decades. Life in Elmwood Springs was rather predictable, and everyone was familiar with each other's life stories, including their woes and successes.

One of my absolute favorite characters, and also the main character, was Aunt Elner Shimfissle. She was approximately 90 years old and was quite the remarkable gal! Throughout her lifetime, she demonstrated curiosity, humor, and care towards everyone. She helped an incredible number of people by baking pies, offering sound advice, and always being available to lend a helping hand. In fact, she had a few mysteries of her own that she held back until the very end.

When Elner falls out of a tree while picking figs for the last time, her life takes an unexpected turn that lands her in the hospital. What occurs next would spoil the surprises, but be prepared for her adventure. The people in the town all find themselves pondering the question: What is life really about anyway? Elner has shown them through her daily living precisely what life is about... Loving and living for one day at a time, and making the best out of every situation.

This is a cute book and an easy read. It is a very lighthearted and humorous book that is well worth pondering on.

The book was a charming and folksy Southern story that had a certain allure.

It managed to bring a sense of warmth and optimism to my book club, making us feel good about life for a brief while.

It was truly refreshing to be reminded that there is such inherent goodness in the world.

The author's skill in transporting us to another dimension, away from our daily grind and into a place filled with simple pleasures, was quite remarkable.

This aspect alone was not a bad takeaway from the book.

I hope that Heaven is indeed a place of reunions, joyous moments, and ultimate peace.

A place where the worries of money, status, guilt, and anger cease to exist, and where stress and sorrow are unknown words.

We rated the book between 3 and 3.25.

We liked it, but we also recognized that it would never win any awards for its great writing.

I had read Fannie Flagg's "Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe" before, and after reading "Can't Wait to Get to Heaven," it felt somewhat familiar.

Perhaps it was because it followed similar incidents as in her previous work, almost as if once you've read one of her books, you've read them all.

So, for me, it was just mediocre.

Would I read her again? I would have to seriously think about that.

Although she does have a unique brand of humor that shines through in her stories.

There always seems to be a hint of darkness, yet it is balanced with a splash of humor, and always concludes with a happy ending.

I believe this is the appeal for those who enjoy reading her works, along with her offbeat and memorable characters.

I have a deep affection for Fannie Flagg's delightfully quirky and sweet characters, as well as the charming small town life in which she places them.

In this particular story, we are introduced to Elner Shemfissle, an elderly woman in her eighties or nineties. One fateful day, while up on a ladder picking figs from her tree, Elner has a fall.

The outcome of this accident is uncertain - Elner may or may not succumb to her injuries. However, regardless of the physical consequences, she continues to have a profound impact on the lives of many, not only in her town but also far beyond.

Elner's wisdom and humor are like beacons, shining brightly and bringing warmth and joy to all those who come into contact with her. Her presence enriches the lives of those around her, and her story serves as a reminder of the power of a kind heart and a positive spirit.

As we follow Elner's journey, we are drawn into a world of small town charm and the simple pleasures of life. We witness the bonds of community and the importance of human connection.

Fannie Flagg has once again created a captivating story that will touch the hearts of readers and leave them with a sense of hope and inspiration.

I have so far read two books from this writer and this is her third.

The first was Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe, by far one of my favorite books to date. It was a captivating read that took me on a wonderful journey.

Although this new book takes place later on in time, the characters of this book are somewhat linked to the characters of the previous book "Welcome to the World, Baby Girl". This connection adds an interesting layer to the story.

It is a great book to read if life has hung you out to dry and the last thing you need is more drama. It's like a spoonful of honey when your life/throat is parched and itchy.

It has a lot of love in it and a great message for all of us to strive to be better. I certainly would love to have a little more of Elner in me.

At times I thoroughly enjoyed this book, though I had a bit of a problem digesting too sweet a story and suspending my disbelief. At one point the word fake sugar came into my mind out of nowhere. However, it did compensate later on in the story, so I did not go into a diabetic coma, and the plot got to have more consistency and substance.

I can't wait to die and go to heaven if it means sailing into the sunset and arriving back in the times of Torrey Pines Beach and buggy boards. With 375 pages, this book offers a rich and engaging reading experience.