It's Not the End of the World

It's Not the End of the World fits squarely within the coming-of-age genre, exploring the emotional and psychological growth of its young protagonist, Karen Newman. Coming-of-age novels typically focus on the personal development and maturation of a young person, often through a significant life event or series of events. In this novel, Karen’s parents' divorce acts as the catalyst for her journey toward understanding and acceptance.

The narrative delves into Karen’s internal world, capturing the confusion, anger, and sadness that accompany her parents' separation. This emotional depth is characteristic of the coming-of-age genre, which often prioritizes character development and emotional realism over plot-driven action. Karen’s attempts to reconcile her family, and her eventual acceptance of the new family dynamics highlight her growth from naivety to a more nuanced understanding of life's complexities.

While many coming-of-age novels intersect with the epic and follow the protagonist over journeys or interactions with a cast of new characters, such as Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations (1861). However, there is a tradition of coming-of-age novels that trace domestic dramas. Little Women (1868) by Louisa May Alcott is a famous example.