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60 pages 2 hours read

Rent

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1996

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Book Brief

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Jonathan Larson

Rent

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1996
Book Details
Pages

168

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1990s

Publication Year

1996

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Rent follows a diverse group of friends, artists, and lovers in poverty-stricken Lower Manhattan, who face struggles related to identity, love, and illness. As they navigate life's challenges—such as drug addiction, HIV/AIDS, and societal pressures—they find hope, pursue their dreams, and forge deep connections that highlight the importance of community and resilience. The play portrays discrimination based on HIV positivity, race, gender identity, and sexuality, as well as discusses substance use and addiction, death by suicide, and mental health challenges.

Emotional

Bittersweet

Hopeful

Inspirational

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.4

11,418 ratings

76%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Rent by Jonathan Larson receives acclaim for its raw emotion, powerful themes of love and loss, and a diverse, compelling cast of characters. Critics laud its music and social relevance. However, some find the storyline occasionally fragmented and certain character arcs underdeveloped. Overall, it is praised for its bold, and moving portrayal of contemporary issues.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Rent?

Rent by Jonathan Larson appeals to readers who enjoy stories of love, friendship, and social issues in a contemporary urban setting. Comparable to Angels in America by Tony Kushner, this modern rock musical resonates with fans of dramatic, character-driven narratives that explore themes of identity, community, and resilience.

4.4

11,418 ratings

76%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

168

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1990s

Publication Year

1996

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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