Miss You Like Crazy

Lynne Hughes teaches communication arts at the University of Calgary.

This first novel is a unique and lively effort that will amuse and
delight most readers. It details the story of Maylou, a young woman who,
dissatisfied with her life, is presented with the opportunity to decide
her future. Her mother has just died, and Maylou must travel to collect
her remains as well as to pick up her father. Miss You Like Crazy
becomes truly a “road” novel: it describes not only the physical
journey that Maylou makes (from Kansas to Florida and back again) but
also the emotional journey she takes to the discovery of the true nature
of love and life.

Along the way Maylou meets many colorful and bizarre characters, all of
whom offer her wisdom of one kind or another. An ardent Elvis fan tells
her, “love yourself, love Elvis, then be very selective. . . . Don’t
love with your heart, love with your head. And at the beginning don’t
go overboard buying gifts.” Others impart somewhat more enlightening
advice that helps her perceive in which direction real happiness lies.

The world Clark creates in this novel is populated with odd characters
who speak in strange clichés and curiously poetic language. They are
gullible and perhaps unworldly; nevertheless, they are content to be
themselves, refuse to take life too seriously, and essentially roll with
any punches that come their way. Miss You Like Crazy is a touching yet
hilarious and vibrant novel that will be enjoyed.