Housekeeping is a 1980 novel by Marilynne Robinson, which tells the story of two young sisters, Ruth and Lucille, who are left to fend for themselves in a small town in Idaho after the death of their mother and the departure of their aunt, Sylvie. The girls are taken in by their eccentric grandmother, who lives a solitary and unconventional life.
As the sisters struggle to adjust to their new circumstances, they come to learn about the history of their family and the secrets that have shaped their lives. They also become involved in the lives of the townspeople, including a young drifter named Ruthie and the town's minister, who becomes a father figure to the girls.
Housekeeping is a beautifully written and evocative novel that explores themes of family, loss, and identity. It is known for its lyrical prose, compelling characters, and its depiction of the beauty and mystery of the natural world.