Plot Summary

The Porcupine of Truth

Bill Konigsberg
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The Porcupine of Truth

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2015

Book Brief

Bill Konigsberg

The Porcupine of Truth

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2015
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Montana • 2010s

Theme
Publication Year

2015

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

In Bill Konigsberg’s The Porcupine of Truth (2015), seventeen-year-old Carson Smith moves to Billings, Montana, where he meets Aisha, a girl kicked out by her religious father for being a homosexual. Carson and Aisha embark on a road trip to find Carson’s estranged grandfather, Russ, leading them to explore issues of identity, family, and faith. The story contains themes of terminal illness, alcoholism, and LGBTQ+ rejection.

Emotional

Heartwarming

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Humorous

Reviews & Readership

4.2

2,404 ratings

69%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Bill Konigsberg's The Porcupine of Truth is praised for its engaging exploration of family, identity, and LGBTQ+ themes, blending humor and emotional depth. However, some critics note that the pacing can be uneven, and certain plot elements may feel predictable. Overall, it's a thought-provoking and heartfelt read for young adults.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Porcupine of Truth?

A reader who enjoys The Porcupine of Truth by Bill Konigsberg is often interested in coming-of-age stories that explore complex family dynamics and identity issues. Similar to fans of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli and Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell, they appreciate humor, heart, and self-discovery journeys.

4.2

2,404 ratings

69%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Montana • 2010s

Theme
Publication Year

2015

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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