Plot Summary

Blood Brothers

Willy Russell
Guide cover placeholder

Blood Brothers

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1983

Book Brief

Willy Russell

Blood Brothers

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1983
Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Liverpool, England • 1960s-1980s

Publication Year

1983

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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Super Short Summary

Blood Brothers by Willy Russell is a musical that follows the lives of separated twin brothers, Edward and Mickey, who grow up in starkly different socioeconomic conditions—one opulently and the other in poverty. They become close friends unaware of their true relationship, leading to a tragic love triangle with disastrous consequences, exacerbated by class differences and misunderstandings. This play discusses sensitive topics such as poverty, addiction, and violence.

Melancholic

Gritty

Bittersweet

Emotional

Suspenseful

Reviews & Readership

4.2

8,718 ratings

72%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Blood Brothers by Willy Russell is lauded for its compelling narrative and emotional depth, capturing the complexities of class divide and fate. Reviewers praise its engaging characters and poignant themes. However, some critique its predictability and reliance on melodrama. Overall, it is considered a powerful and thought-provoking work with significant social commentary.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Blood Brothers?

Fans of Blood Brothers by Willy Russell are likely to be captivated by gritty social dramas and powerful narratives exploring themes of class, fate, and family. They may also enjoy works like Billy Elliot by Melvin Burgess or Angela’s Ashes by Frank McCourt, which similarly delve into the complexities of working-class life.

4.2

8,718 ratings

72%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Liverpool, England • 1960s-1980s

Publication Year

1983

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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