25 pages • 50 minutes read
Oscar and the Lady in Pink
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Book Brief
96
Novel • Fiction
France • Contemporary
2002
Adult
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
Oscar and the Lady in Pink by Éric-Emmanuel Schmitt follows 10-year-old Oscar, who is dying of cancer, as he writes letters to God over his final 12 days, with the guidance of Granny Rose, an elderly hospital volunteer, who encourages him to live each day as a decade of life. Written in French and translated into many languages, this touching tale reflects on questions of Christian faith, life, and death.
Heartwarming
Inspirational
Contemplative
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Oscar and the Lady in Pink by Éric-Emmanuel Schmitt is praised for its poignant narrative and tender exploration of themes like illness and hope. Critics laud its emotional depth and simplicity, although some find it emotionally manipulative. The novella's brevity and impactful storytelling make it a significant read, though it may feel overly sentimental to some.
Who Should Read Oscar and the Lady in Pink?
A reader who would enjoy Oscar and the Lady in Pink by Éric-Emmanuel Schmitt is likely someone who appreciates poignant, emotionally rich stories about the human condition, similar to The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry and Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom. They value introspective narratives that offer profound life lessons.
Granny Rose
Granny Rose
An elderly volunteer at the hospital, known for her pink uniform, who befriends Oscar and supports him through her stories, discussions about God, and encouragement to write his thoughts.
Peggy Sue
Peggy Sue
Referred to as Peggy Blue due to her distinct skin color, she is Oscar's fellow patient and his innocent and cherished love interest during their time in the hospital.
96
Novel • Fiction
France • Contemporary
2002
Adult
14-18 years
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