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289
Novel • Fiction
London, England • 2000s
2005
Adult
18+ years
Saturday, a novel by Ian McEwan, follows a day in the life of Henry Perowne, a successful neurosurgeon in London, on February 15, 2003, amid anti-war demonstrations and the looming Iraq invasion. Henry's day unfolds with typical activities but takes a dark turn after a traffic accident with an unstable individual, leading to events that threaten his family's safety. Sensitive topics include depictions of violence and a home invasion.
Contemplative
Melancholic
Mysterious
Emotional
Unnerving
73,477 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Saturday by Ian McEwan is praised for its meticulous prose and the psychological depth of its protagonist, effectively capturing a single, tense day in modern London. However, some critics find its pacing slow and certain plot points implausible. Overall, it is lauded for its exploration of the impact of global events on personal lives.
Readers who enjoy Saturday by Ian McEwan are typically drawn to introspective and character-driven narratives, often appreciating the existential and moral dilemmas faced by protagonists. Fans of McEwan’s sharp prose may also like Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf and White Teeth by Zadie Smith for their similar deep dives into personal and societal complexities.
73,477 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Baxter
The novel’s complex antagonist who suffers from Huntington's Disease, leading to unpredictable behavior. He becomes fixated on Henry following a minor car accident.
Daisy Perowne
Henry's daughter, an intelligent and independent young woman with a passion for poetry. She is encouraged by her grandfather and has secured a book deal.
Rosalind Perowne
Henry’s wife, a dedicated lawyer who balances her career with nurturing her family. She supports Henry, showing strength and resilience during the novel's tense moments.
Theo Perowne
Henry’s 18-year-old son, a free spirit who is passionate about music, particularly blues guitar. He is influenced by his grandfather and shares a youthful, artistic energy.
John Grammaticus
Henry’s father-in-law, a renowned poet who impacts his grandchildren’s lives. He is characterized by his intellectual prowess but struggles with alcohol misuse.
289
Novel • Fiction
London, England • 2000s
2005
Adult
18+ years
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