logo

48 pages 1 hour read

High Fidelity

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1995

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Nick Hornby

High Fidelity

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1995
Book Details
Pages

340

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

London, England • 1990s

Publication Year

1995

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

High Fidelity by Nick Hornby follows Rob Fleming, a 35-year-old record store owner in London who, after being dumped by his girlfriend Laura, revisits his top five worst breakups to grasp his romantic failures. As he contacts his exes, he gains insights into his past and personal growth, ultimately rekindling his relationship with Laura and finding renewed purpose.

Nostalgic

Humorous

Romantic

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.1

209,699 ratings

70%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Nick Hornby's High Fidelity offers a witty, poignant exploration of relationships and self-discovery through the eyes of its music-obsessed protagonist. Reviewers praise its humor and relatable characters, though some criticize its occasional lack of depth and aimless narrative. Overall, it's lauded for its charm and emotional resonance.

Who should read this

Who Should Read High Fidelity?

Readers who enjoyed About a Boy by Nick Hornby or Bridget Jones's Diary by Helen Fielding will likely find High Fidelity appealing. This book attracts those who appreciate humor, romance, and the cultural landscape of pop music. Ideal for fans of character-driven narratives and introspective journeys of self-discovery.

4.1

209,699 ratings

70%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Rob Fleming

The protagonist and narrator, Rob is a music enthusiast who owns a record store and experiences several failed relationships, including a significant breakup with Laura.

Rob's ex-girlfriend, whose breakup with him acts as a catalyst for his self-reflection and growth; she is a professional navigating the challenges of her career and personal life.

An American singer who spends a night with Rob following his breakup; she offers Rob a fresh perspective on relationships and remains a friend.

A former neighbor of Rob and Laura, Ian becomes involved with Laura after she leaves Rob, representing an alternative type of relationship for her.

An outspoken and often obnoxious employee at Rob’s record store, Barry aspires to be a musician and eventually forms a band, showcasing his transition from listener to performer.

A shy, introverted employee at Rob’s record store, Dick is passionate about music and gradually opens up, eventually forming a quiet but meaningful relationship.

Book Details
Pages

340

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

London, England • 1990s

Publication Year

1995

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.