The Spectacular Now
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2008
306
Novel • Fiction
Oklahoma • 2000s
2008
YA
14-18 years
790L
In The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp, Sutter Keely is a charismatic and perpetual party-goer in his Oklahoma town, who numbs himself with a constant buzz from whiskey and 7-Up. As his friends plan their futures, Sutter meets Aimee Finecky, a studious and responsible girl, who he believes he can help become more self-assured and carefree. Sutter's relationship with Aimee brings unexpected challenges and personal revelations that force him to confront his lifestyle and choices. This novel involves themes of substance abuse and familial dysfunction.
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Melancholic
Romantic
Emotional
45,274 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Tim Tharp's The Spectacular Now explores teenage life with a mix of humor and gravity, capturing the charm and recklessness of its protagonist, Sutter Keely. Reviewers often praise its authentic voice and relatable struggles. Some critiques highlight a lack of resolution and depth in supporting characters, yet the novel remains a poignant read about adolescence and self-discovery.
A reader who would enjoy The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp is typically someone who appreciates coming-of-age stories with flawed, relatable characters. Fans of John Green's The Fault in Our Stars and Stephen Chbosky's The Perks of Being a Wallflower will find similar themes of young love, self-discovery, and confronting life’s challenges.
45,274 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
306
Novel • Fiction
Oklahoma • 2000s
2008
YA
14-18 years
790L
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