Tin Man by Sarah Winman

Ellis and Michael were best friends and then came Alice and when Ellis and Alice became a couple the twosome became three until eventually Michael drew away. The story is told from Ellis and then Michael's point of view and follows them through the younger years to present. It also loosely revolves around a painting of sunflowers that Ellis's mom adored ever since winning it years ago that has been hidden, like many other things, since she died. Like a sunflower always turning to face the sun, "Tin Man" gives us a feeling of hope in the wake of despair and loss. There is intense pain and loss in this book but also great love. Poetic and exquisite writing - Winman tugs at your heartstrings while she paints a vivid portrait of real people.