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Nada

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1945

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Book Brief

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Carmen Laforet

Nada

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1945
Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Barcelona, Spain • 1940s

Publication Year

1945

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

860L

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Super Short Summary

Nada by Carmen Laforet chronicles Andrea, an orphan who moves from a provincial convent to Barcelona to attend university, living with estranged, impoverished family members in a cramped apartment. The novel depicts domestic strife, artistic jealousies, and evolving friendships, culminating in Andrea's departure for Madrid to seek a new life. The narrative sensitively addresses themes of abuse and prostitution.

Melancholic

Mysterious

Dark

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.1

31,807 ratings

67%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Reviews for Carmen Laforet's Nada highlight its evocative portrayal of post-Civil War Barcelona and its Gothic atmosphere. Readers praise Laforet's nuanced depiction of youthful alienation and the powerful, introspective narrative voice. However, some note that the storyline can feel disjointed and the pace slow at times. Overall, it's a poignant and haunting debut.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Nada?

A reader who would enjoy Nada by Carmen Laforet is likely someone who appreciates coming-of-age stories and post-war settings. They may also enjoy works like The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath or The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende, which similarly explore themes of personal struggle, identity, and familial dysfunction within a sociopolitical context.

4.1

31,807 ratings

67%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Andrea

A creative and empathetic young woman who moves to Barcelona from a provincial convent to pursue her university studies, navigating complex family dynamics and friendships in a post-war environment.

A kind, deeply religious woman who was once prosperous but now sacrifices her comfort for others, occasionally showing moments of surprising awareness amidst her generally senile demeanor.

A controlling and deeply religious woman whose strict Catholic values influence her critical stance toward other family members and who plays a significant role in the household's upkeep.

Angustias’s boss, suspected of having a more personal connection with her and occasionally linked to Román’s dubious activities.

A struggling artist married to Gloria, known for his devotion to painting despite a lack of success, and prone to anger and domestic tension.

An intelligent and musically gifted man involved in black-market activities, known for his complex relationships within the family and affinity for collecting art objects.

Juan’s wife, a resilient and practical woman with a striking appearance who balances storytelling with her difficult family life and displays resourcefulness in difficult times.

A wealthy, strong-willed university student who forms a close friendship with Andrea, characterized by her interest in unique people and her complex romantic involvements.

A delicately beautiful woman with a quiet demeanor who holds concerns over her daughter's relationships and shares a past connection with Román.

Ena’s boyfriend, loyal and supportive, who remains involved with her throughout her various romantic entanglements.

A wealthy young man who briefly becomes interested in Andrea, offering an escape from poverty but ultimately disappointing her.

A wealthy student who expresses interest in Andrea, inviting her into his social circle, though their connection quickly dissipates.

Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Barcelona, Spain • 1940s

Publication Year

1945

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

860L

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