56 pages 1 hour read

The Most Fun We Ever Had

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

Claire Lombardo

The Most Fun We Ever Had

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

660

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Chicago, Illinois • 2010s

Publication Year

2019

Publisher

Doubleday

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

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

Reviews & Readership

4.0

122,033 ratings

73%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

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.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Most Fun We Ever Had?

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.

4.0

122,033 ratings

73%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Marilyn Sorenson

The matriarch of the Sorenson family who marries young and ultimately runs a hardware store, embodying resilience and devotion to her family. Her journey throughout the novel explores the complexities of love, marriage, and personal sacrifice.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Book Details
Pages

660

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Chicago, Illinois • 2010s

Publication Year

2019

Publisher

Doubleday

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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