Plot Summary

Oh, Beautiful

John Paul Godges
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Oh, Beautiful

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2021

Book Brief

John Paul Godges

Oh, Beautiful

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2021
Book Details
Pages

497

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 20th Century

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In his memoir Oh, Beautiful (2010), John Paul Godges narrates a century-long story spanning three generations, focusing on his grandparents' immigration, his parents' assimilation, and his siblings navigating the turbulent latter half of the 20th century. Sensitive topics in the book include mental illness and anti-immigrant discrimination.

Nostalgic

Contemplative

Emotional

Informative

Reviews & Readership

4.1

179 ratings

78%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

John Paul Godges' Oh, Beautiful skillfully blends family history with America's broader cultural landscape, appealing to readers interested in personal narratives and national identity. Critics praise its rich storytelling and profound insights. However, some found the narrative pacing uneven. Overall, it’s an evocative and thought-provoking read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Oh, Beautiful?

A reader who enjoys Oh, Beautiful by John Paul Godges likely appreciates memoirs with rich, personal narratives that intertwine family history and national identity. Fans of Barack Obama's Dreams from My Father or Jeannette Walls' The Glass Castle will find this reflective exploration of the American dream particularly engaging.

4.1

179 ratings

78%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

497

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 20th Century

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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