Read Dominique Browning’s NYTimes review of Elinor Lipman’s two new books: a novel, “The View FromPenthouse B,” and a collection of essays,”I Can’t Complain: (All Too) Personal Essays.

She is a graduate of Lowell High School and a past recipient of the LHS Distinguished Alumni Award. There is a rumor that the Parker Lectures will be bringing her back to Lowell for its new season in the fall.

I’m certain that a palm reader would trace a long laugh line in Lipman’s hand. “The View From Penthouse B” sparkles with wit. (Dominique Browning)

Elinor Lipman. (Web photo by Michael Lionstar, courtesy of nytimes.com)