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45 pages 1 hour read

Jonathan Franzen

The Corrections

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2001

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Corrections by Jonathan Franzen follows the Lambert family, a dysfunctional Midwestern group led by aging parents Alfred and Enid. Their three children—Gary, Chip, and Denise—navigate personal struggles and conflicts while dealing with their father's declining health. Spanning various times and locations, the novel explores themes of family, identity, and societal expectations. The book includes instances of depression, dementia, financial deceit, and extramarital affairs.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Jonathan Franzen's The Corrections has been praised for its intricate character development and insightful depiction of family dynamics, resonating with many readers. Critics highlight its deep emotional engagement and the intricate weaving of multiple storylines. However, some have criticized its length and occasional digressions, finding parts of the narrative bloated. Overall, it's a compelling but polarizing read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Corrections?

A reader who enjoys richly detailed family sagas with complex characters and dark humor would find The Corrections by Jonathan Franzen compelling. Fans of novels like Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides and The Marriage Plot by Eugenides or Freedom by Franzen will likely appreciate its depth and narrative style.

Book Details
Pages

653

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

St. Jude, Midwest • 1990s

Theme
Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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