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31 pages 1 hour read

The Notebook

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1996

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Book Brief

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Nicholas Sparks

The Notebook

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1996
Book Details
Pages

227

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New Bern, North Carolina • 1940s

Theme
Publication Year

1996

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

13+ years

Lexile Level

850L

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Super Short Summary

The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks follows the enduring love story of Noah Calhoun and Allie Nelson over several decades, including their initial summer romance, separation due to societal pressures, and reunion after World War II, framed by an elderly Noah reading their tale to Allie, who has Alzheimer's disease, hoping to spark her memories. Explicit scenes of elder care and terminal illness are present in the book.

Romantic

Emotional

Bittersweet

Heartwarming

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.4

1,749,776 ratings

77%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Nicholas Sparks' The Notebook enchants readers with its heartfelt narrative and enduring romance, evoking deep emotional responses. Praised for its poetic writing and evocative portrayal of lifelong love, it, however, sometimes faces criticism for being overly sentimental and predictable. Overall, it remains a beloved tearjerker that resonates with many.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Notebook?

Readers who enjoy poignant love stories like The Fault in Our Stars or Me Before You will be drawn to The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks. This novel appeals to those who appreciate tales of enduring romance, emotional depth, and the power of memory, making it perfect for fans of profound, heartwarming narratives.

4.4

1,749,776 ratings

77%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Noah Calhoun

A young man from New Bern, North Carolina, who falls in love with Allie Nelson during a summer when she visits for the tobacco harvest. He is characterized by his love for poetry and art and remains devoted to Allie throughout his life.

A teenager from a wealthy family who falls in love with Noah Calhoun during a summer in New Bern. She later moves on with her life but returns to New Bern to see Noah after seeing an article about him in the newspaper.

Book Details
Pages

227

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New Bern, North Carolina • 1940s

Theme
Publication Year

1996

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

13+ years

Lexile Level

850L

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