56 pages • 1 hour read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
660
Novel • Fiction
Chicago, Illinois • 2010s
2019
Doubleday
Adult
18+ years
The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo follows the Sorenson family, focusing on Marilyn and David and their four adult daughters as they navigate family bonds, rigid definitions, and the consequences of a strong parental partnership across three generations in Oak Park, Illinois. The book explores depression, stillbirth, substance misuse, eating disorders, and death by suicide.
Emotional
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Melancholic
Nostalgic
122,033 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Claire Lombardo's The Most Fun We Ever Had has garnered acclaim for its richly developed characters, realistic portrayal of family dynamics, and interwoven timelines that keep readers engaged. Critics appreciate the emotional depth and complexity, though some criticize its length and pacing. Overall, it's praised for capturing the intricacies of familial bonds.
Readers who relish intricate family sagas and character-driven narratives will enjoy Claire Lombardo's The Most Fun We Ever Had. Fans of Jonathan Franzen's The Corrections and Ann Patchett's Commonwealth will appreciate this heartfelt exploration of familial bonds, secrets, and enduring love.
122,033 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
David Sorenson
A retired doctor and devoted father and husband grappling with finding a new purpose in life. He is married to Marilyn, with whom he experiences life's trials and joys as they raise their family together.
Wendy Eisenberg
The oldest Sorenson daughter known for her rebellious and wild nature. Despite her struggles, she frequently ends up taking on a caregiving role for her family.
Violet Sorenson-Lowell
Characterized as the more stable and responsible Sorenson sibling, she must navigate the challenges of reintroducing her son Jonah into her life. She faces the complexities of balancing family and personal identity.
Liza Sorenson
The middle Sorenson daughter who achieves professional success as a tenured professor. She navigates personal and romantic challenges, especially following a turbulent relationship with her boyfriend, Ryan.
Grace Sorenson
The youngest and most doted-upon Sorenson child, who feels alienated despite being heavily cared for. Her struggles include finding her own path and forming meaningful relationships outside her family's shadow.
660
Novel • Fiction
Chicago, Illinois • 2010s
2019
Doubleday
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.