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37 pages 1 hour read

Lost In Yonkers

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1991

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Book Brief

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Neil Simon

Lost In Yonkers

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1991
Book Details
Pages

128

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Yonkers, New York • 1940s

Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

NP

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Super Short Summary

Lost in Yonkers by Neil Simon follows teenage brothers Jay and Arty Kurnitz, sent to live with their strict grandmother and intellectually disabled aunt Bella above the family candy shop in Yonkers in 1942 while their father works to pay off a loan. During their stay, they navigate family tensions and evolving relationships, uncovering hidden money and secrets, and come of age amidst generational trauma. It contains discussions of child abuse, child death, physical abuse, sexual abuse, trauma, antisemitism, and intellectual disability.

Humorous

Emotional

Bittersweet

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.3

4,417 ratings

68%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Lost In Yonkers by Neil Simon is a poignant and humorous tale that delves into family dynamics during wartime. Praised for its sharp dialogue and rich character development, the play skillfully balances emotional depth with comedic elements. However, some critics feel the plot is predictable at times. Overall, Simon's work is an engaging and heartfelt exploration of resilience and family ties.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Lost In Yonkers?

A reader who enjoys family dramas infused with humor and heart would appreciate Neil Simon's Lost in Yonkers. Fans of J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye or Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird will find similar deep character explorations and coming-of-age themes. Ideal for those who relish emotional complexity and poignant storytelling.

4.3

4,417 ratings

68%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

128

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Yonkers, New York • 1940s

Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

NP

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