I realize that no show is right for everyone. It took me 3 or 4 episodes to get involved. Once I was, though, I was completely hooked. At times, the story line was difficult—so is life. To me, the characters were believable. The throwback to the days of my youth was enjoyable. The ending was gentle, tender and completely up lifting.
My suspicion is that the folks who gave it a low rating may have a similar friendship that has not yet been repaired or reconciled.
I am now reading the book and, I suspect, I will watch the entire series again.