54 pages • 1 hour read
Giovanni's Room
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Book Brief
159
Novel • Fiction
Paris, France • 1950s
1956
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin follows American expatriate David in 1950s France as he grapples with his sexual identity and relationships. Torn between his love for an Italian barman, Giovanni, and his engagement to Hella, David's indecision leads to tragic outcomes. The novel explores themes of sexuality, identity, and societal norms, in a setting deeply affected by prejudices against LGBTQ+ communities.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Mysterious
Bittersweet
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
189,406 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
James Baldwin’s Giovanni’s Room is largely praised for its profound exploration of human desire and complex portrayal of same-sex relationships. Critics commend Baldwin's eloquent prose and emotional depth. Some readers find the narrative pace slow and the protagonist's introspection heavy-handed. Overall, it's a poignant, beautifully written novel with enduring relevance.
Who Should Read Giovanni's Room?
A reader who would enjoy Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin is likely attracted to deeply emotional, character-driven narratives that explore complex themes of identity, sexuality, and existential anguish. This reader might also appreciate the works of authors like Virginia Woolf (Mrs. Dalloway) and André Aciman (Call Me by Your Name).
189,406 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
159
Novel • Fiction
Paris, France • 1950s
1956
Adult
18+ years
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