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All the Ugly and Wonderful Things

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016

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Book Brief

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Bryn Greenwood

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

432

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Kansas • 1970s

Theme
Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In All the Ugly and Wonderful Things by Bryn Greenwood, eight-year-old Wavy, struggling with her parents' drug-fueled chaos, forms a controversial bond with Kellen, a 24-year-old man working for her father. Their relationship, shrouded in innocence while hidden, faces cruel societal judgment when exposed, forcing them to reassess their feelings and face public scrutiny. Sensitive topics include abuse, drug use, incarceration, intense violence, and a sexualized relationship between an adult and a minor.

Mysterious

Dark

Emotional

Challenging

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.1

203,847 ratings

76%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things by Bryn Greenwood is a provocative, deeply emotional novel exploring complex, controversial relationships. Its raw narrative and strong characterization leave a lasting impact, though some readers find the subject matter uncomfortable and challenging. An evocative read for those open to morally gray storytelling.

Who should read this

Who Should Read All the Ugly and Wonderful Things?

Readers who relish complex, morally ambiguous stories would enjoy Bryn Greenwood's All the Ugly and Wonderful Things. Fans of Vladimir Nabokov's Lolita or Emma Donoghue's Room will appreciate this novel's controversial themes and compelling character studies. It's ideal for those who seek emotional depth and challenging societal norms in fiction.

4.1

203,847 ratings

76%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Wavonna Lee Quinn (Wavy)

A young girl who grows up in a tumultuous environment due to her parents' issues with drug abuse and neglect. She struggles with eating and touch and forms a complex relationship with Kellen.

A man working for a meth dealer who becomes an unlikely presence in Wavy's life. He has his own history of trauma and becomes closely involved with Wavy.

Wavy's mother, whose struggles with drug addiction and mental health issues create a chaotic and often harmful home environment. Her behavior influences many of Wavy's fears and habits.

Wavy's cousin who provides an outside perspective on Wavy's life. Her observations help fill in the details about Wavy's experiences and character.

Wavy's college roommate, who serves as a witness to later events in Wavy's life. She comes from a privileged background and is affected by Wavy's resilience.

Book Details
Pages

432

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Kansas • 1970s

Theme
Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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