63 pages • 2 hours read
Room
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Book Brief
334
Novel • Fiction
2010
Adult
18+ years
HL730L
Super Short Summary
Room by Emma Donoghue follows five-year-old Jack, who resides with his mother, Ma, in a single room where they are held captive by a man Jack calls Old Nick. Through Jack's innocent perspective, the narrative delves into themes of trauma, innocence, and adaptability as Ma devises a daring escape plan to free them from their confined existence. Topics include depictions of rape, violence, death by suicide, still birth, child endangerment, abuse through neglect, and imprisonment.
Mysterious
Dark
Emotional
Melancholic
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
845,574 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Emma Donoghue’s Room receives widespread acclaim for its unique narrative perspective and emotional depth, capturing the innocence and resilience through a child’s eyes. Critics praise its compelling storytelling and character development. However, some find its pacing uneven and the premise challenging. Overall, it's lauded for its originality and impact.
Who Should Read Room?
Readers who enjoy intense psychological dramas and stories of resilience would appreciate Room by Emma Donoghue. Similar to readers of Emma Donoghue's The Wonder and Emma Donoghue's Akin, fans of The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold will be drawn to the gripping narrative and emotional depth in Room. The novel suits those seeking profound character studies and heart-wrenching plots.
845,574 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ma
Ma
Jack's 26-year-old mother who has been held captive in Room for seven years; she demonstrates resilience and dedication to providing Jack with the best upbringing possible under challenging circumstances.
Old Nick
Old Nick
The man responsible for abducting Ma and holding her captive in Room, where he frequently visits and interacts with them under a strict set of conditions.
Grandma
Grandma
Ma's mother, who is reunited with Ma and meets Jack for the first time after Ma's captivity; she supports Ma's adjustment to life outside of Room and helps Jack navigate the new world.
334
Novel • Fiction
2010
Adult
18+ years
HL730L
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