Oprah’s Book Club Returns to Wally Lamb with The River Is Waiting

NEW YORK, June 11, 2025 – Oprah Winfrey has once again highlighted the literary brilliance of Wally Lamb by selecting his latest novel, The River Is Waiting, as the 115th title for Oprah’s Book Club—marking an extraordinary third appearance by Lamb, after She’s Come Undone (1997) and I Know This Much Is True (1998) .

The Phone Call That Launched It All

Nearly three decades ago, Oprah surprised Lamb with a personal phone call in 1992 to praise his debut novel, a moment he once thought was “a prank” . Now, that same voice reached him again last month to confirm The River Is Waiting as her June pick—an act of “grace and good fortune,” according to Lamb beyondthebookends.

Synopsis of The River Is Waiting

The River Is Waiting centers on Corby Ledbetter, a young father whose downward spiral—marked by job loss and addiction—leads to an unthinkable tragedy: his child’s death. Sentenced to prison for involuntary manslaughter, Corby confronts the violent realities of incarceration but also forms unexpected bonds with sympathetic inmates and a prison librarian. Still, he remains a troubled, deeply human figure wrestling with guilt and the possibility of redemption .

Oprah’s Praise

Oprah lauded Lamb as “truly masterful and beloved,” stating that selecting three of his novels speaks volumes about her admiration. In her official statement, she emphasized the emotional journey Corby undertakes—from “the depths of despair to the healing power of facing the truth and finding forgiveness”.

Lamb on Crafting the Story

Lamb attributes the authenticity of prison life in the novel to his 20-year teaching experience at York Correctional Institution in Connecticut. He hopes readers draw away the central message: “addiction is a black hole you can get out of”.

The River Is Waiting continues Wally Lamb’s tradition of unflinchingly empathetic storytelling. With Oprah’s endorsement, it’s not just a powerful narrative—it’s a cultural moment.