36 pages • 1 hour read
273
Novel • Fiction
Ireland • 2010s
2018
Adult
18+ years
Normal People by Sally Rooney follows Connell, a boy from a lower-middle-class background, and Marianne, a girl from a wealthy family, as they navigate the complexities of their intimate yet secretive relationship throughout their school years and into university in Dublin. They experience fluctuating social dynamics, emotional challenges, and personal growth while maintaining an impactful, if sometimes tumultuous, connection. The book includes instances of domestic abuse, psychological distress, and sexual violence.
Melancholic
Romantic
Emotional
Contemplative
Challenging
1,640,870 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Sally Rooney's Normal People receives widespread acclaim for its nuanced portrayal of young love and complex emotional dynamics. Rooney's prose is celebrated for its clarity and emotional depth. However, some critics find the characters' indecisiveness frustrating. Despite this, the novel's exploration of intimacy and social class resonates strongly with many readers.
Fans of introspective, character-driven stories will enjoy Sally Rooney's Normal People. Similar to works like One Day by David Nicholls and A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara, it appeals to readers who appreciate nuanced relationships, coming-of-age themes, and the exploration of social and class dynamics.
1,640,870 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
273
Novel • Fiction
Ireland • 2010s
2018
Adult
18+ years
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