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36 pages 1 hour read

Neil Simon

The Odd Couple

Neil SimonFiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1965

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Book Brief

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Neil Simon

The Odd Couple

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1965
Book Details
Pages

108

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1960s

Publication Year

1965

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Odd Couple by Neil Simon follows the story of two friends, Oscar Madison and Felix Ungar, who become unlikely roommates after their respective divorces. The play explores their clashing personalities—Oscar's sloppiness versus Felix's obsessiveness—and the comedic fallout of their living arrangement. Their evolving dynamic ultimately highlights the importance of compromise and friendship. The play addresses themes of divorce and mental health struggles.

Humorous

Playful

Heartwarming

Emotional

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.4

15,124 ratings

73%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Odd Couple by Neil Simon is praised for its sharp wit and dynamic character interactions. Reviewers admire its comedic portrayal of mismatched roommates and its insightful commentary on friendship. However, some criticize it for relying on stereotypes and for a plot that can feel predictable. Overall, it remains a beloved and humorous classic in American theater.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Odd Couple?

Readers who enjoy sitcom humor, mismatched friendships, and witty dialogue will appreciate Neil Simon's The Odd Couple. Fans of character-driven stories similar to those in Richard Russo's Straight Man or the comedic elements in Kurt Vonnegut's Slaughterhouse-Five will find this play engaging and humorous.

4.4

15,124 ratings

73%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

108

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1960s

Publication Year

1965

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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