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The House We Grew Up In

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2013

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Book Brief

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Lisa Jewell

The House We Grew Up In

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2013
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cotswolds, England • Contemporary

Publication Year

2013

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The House We Grew Up In by Lisa Jewell is a psychological family drama about the Bird family, which appears perfect outwardly but hides deep secrets. The novel explores themes like family ties, trauma, and escape versus coming together. Lorelei, a carefree mother, becomes obsessed with hoarding after a family tragedy shatters their idyllic life. The narrative examines the family's attempts to cope with the past and seek clarity through different perspectives. This study guide discusses sensitive topics including mental health issues, suicide, incest, and sexual assault.

Melancholic

Mysterious

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.0

118,391 ratings

69%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Lisa Jewell's The House We Grew Up In masterfully delves into family dynamics and trauma with engaging writing and well-developed characters. Positive feedback highlights its emotional depth and intricate plot. However, some find it overly dramatic and slow-paced. Overall, it's praised for its compelling exploration of complex relationships.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The House We Grew Up In?

Readers who enjoy complex family dynamics and emotional narratives will be captivated by The House We Grew Up In by Lisa Jewell. Fans of books like Jodi Picoult's My Sister's Keeper or Liane Moriarty's Big Little Lies will find a similar appeal in Jewell's intricate storytelling and richly developed characters.

4.0

118,391 ratings

69%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Lorelei Bird

Lorelei is the central character who collects items and has four children, Megan, Bethan, Rory, and Rhys. Her journey involves dealing with family dynamics and personal struggles.

Colin is Lorelei's husband, who works as a college lecturer. He is a patient and passive character involved in Lorelei's story.

Megan is the oldest child of Lorelei and Colin, known for maintaining a minimalist lifestyle. She is the first child to leave home.

Bethan is Lorelei and Colin's second eldest child, characterized by her quirky fashion and passive nature. She stays at home longer to help her mother.

Rory is Rhys's twin brother and becomes a dynamic character as he navigates his personal growth and challenges after moving away from home.

Rhys is Rory's twin brother who is described as a clingy child with a difficult personality. His character impacts the family deeply.

Vicky is the Birds’ next-door neighbor with a maternal style and colorful personality. She shares a bond with Lorelei and is also a supportive friend.

Molly is the daughter of Megan and Bill and plays a minor role, supporting her mother through various challenges.

Kayleigh is Rory's teenage girlfriend, who offers an outside perspective on the Bird family. Her character evolves through her experiences as they move to Spain.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cotswolds, England • Contemporary

Publication Year

2013

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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