Plot Summary

Boyhood

J. M. Coetzee
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Boyhood

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1997

Book Brief

J. M. Coetzee

Boyhood

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1997
Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

South Africa • 1950s

Publication Year

1997

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Boyhood: Scenes from Provincial Life by J.M. Coetzee is an autobiographical novel that follows young Coetzee's experiences growing up in Worcester, South Africa, after his family moves from Cape Town. It details his complicated relationships with his parents, school life, religious curiosities, racial tensions, and personal insecurities as he navigates childhood and adolescence in a segregated society. The book addresses themes of bullying, racial discrimination, and family dysfunction.

Melancholic

Contemplative

Mysterious

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.0

5,721 ratings

64%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Boyhood by J. M. Coetzee is a compelling autobiographical portrait that explores themes of isolation and identity. Readers appreciate its introspective depth and evocative prose. However, some find the narrative’s pacing slow and its tone overly detached at times. Overall, it’s praised for its honest and poignant exploration of childhood.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Boyhood?

Readers who appreciate introspective, coming-of-age memoirs will enjoy Boyhood by J. M. Coetzee. With its reflective and detailed portrayal of childhood in South Africa, it appeals to fans of works like James Joyce's A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man and Frank McCourt's Angela's Ashes.

4.0

5,721 ratings

64%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

South Africa • 1950s

Publication Year

1997

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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