51 pages • 1 hour read
On Beauty
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Book Brief
445
Novel • Fiction
Boston, Massachusetts • 2000s
2005
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
On Beauty by Zadie Smith follows the Belsey family, dealing with internal and external conflicts involving race, identity, and personal relationships. Howard Belsey, an art historian, and his wife Kiki navigate marital strife, while their children Jerome, Zora, and Levi grapple with their cultural identities. The family's complexities are heightened by Howard's feud with Monty Kipps, a conservative academic whose values clash with the Belseys'.
Contemplative
Humorous
Emotional
Bittersweet
Romantic
Reviews & Readership
87,806 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Zadie Smith's On Beauty is praised for its sharp wit, complex characters, and exploration of cultural and personal identity. Critics admire its nuanced portrayal of family dynamics and the clash of liberal and conservative ideals. Some find its pacing uneven and its conclusion lacking resolution. Overall, it is lauded as a thought-provoking and richly textured novel.
Who Should Read On Beauty?
A reader who would enjoy On Beauty by Zadie Smith likely appreciates complex family dynamics, sharp social commentary, and rich character development. Fans of E.M. Forster's Howards End or Jeffrey Eugenides's Middlesex will find similar themes of cultural clash and identity. The novel appeals to those who enjoy exploring race, class, and aesthetics in modern society.
87,806 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Kiki Belsey
Kiki Belsey
Howard's resilient and empathetic wife, who provides stability for her family amidst personal challenges.
Monty Kipps
Monty Kipps
Howard's academic rival, a conservative scholar whose personal and professional life contrasts with Howard's ideals.
Jerome Belsey
Jerome Belsey
The eldest Belsey son, who finds common ground between his family and the Kipps, embracing aspects of their differing worldviews.
Zora Belsey
Zora Belsey
A college sophomore and the Belseys' daughter, dedicated to academia but grappling with personal and social identity issues.
Levi Belsey
Levi Belsey
The youngest Belsey son, who explores his identity as a young Black man while navigating influences from culture and his privileged background.
445
Novel • Fiction
Boston, Massachusetts • 2000s
2005
Adult
18+ years
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