Plot Summary

One True Thing

Anna Quindlen
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One True Thing

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994

Book Brief

Anna Quindlen

One True Thing

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York • 1980s

Theme
Publication Year

1994

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1050L

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Super Short Summary

One True Thing by Anna Quindlen explores the complex emotional bond between Ellen Gulden and her mother Kate, told through a series of flashbacks. Ellen, a successful New York editor, reluctantly returns to her hometown to care for her ailing mother. As Kate's cancer worsens, Ellen reevaluates her relationships with both parents and faces an unexpected mystery surrounding her mother's death.

Emotional

Contemplative

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.3

41,947 ratings

77%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

One True Thing by Anna Quindlen explores complex mother-daughter relationships, earning praise for its emotional depth and relatable characters. Positive reviews highlight Quindlen's poignant writing and insightful portrayal of care and duty, but some critics feel the pacing is slow and the plot predictable. Overall, it is lauded for its moving and authentic narrative.

Who should read this

Who Should Read One True Thing?

A reader who enjoys One True Thing by Anna Quindlen is likely drawn to emotionally charged narratives that explore complex family dynamics and personal growth. Fans of Jodi Picoult's My Sister's Keeper or Sue Monk Kidd's The Secret Life of Bees will appreciate Quindlen's poignant storytelling and nuanced characters.

4.3

41,947 ratings

77%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York • 1980s

Theme
Publication Year

1994

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1050L

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