48 pages • 1 hour read
The Virgin Suicides
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Book Brief
250
Novel • Fiction
Suburban Michigan • 1970s
1993
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In the 1970s, a group of men recalls their teenage years when they were infatuated with the five Lisbon sisters, who lived a restrictive life due to their religious mother and passive father, and who all eventually died by suicide. The boys, who idolized the sisters, witnessed their struggles, their isolation from the community, and their eventual tragic ends, leaving the reasons for their actions shrouded in mystery.
Melancholic
Mysterious
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Dark
Reviews & Readership
371,721 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jeffrey Eugenides' The Virgin Suicides captivates with its haunting prose and evocative atmosphere, immersing readers in a suburban tragedy told through the eyes of a group of boys. Critics praise its lyrical style and exploration of youth and obsession. However, some find the narrative's detachment and discomforting subject matter challenging. Nevertheless, it remains a poignant, memorable read.
Who Should Read The Virgin Suicides?
A reader of The Virgin Suicides by Jeffrey Eugenides would appreciate melancholic and lyrical prose, exploring themes of adolescence, suburban life, and tragedy. Fans of The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath or White Oleander by Janet Fitch would find similar depth and introspection in this haunting, character-driven narrative.
371,721 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mr. Lisbon
Mr. Lisbon
The Lisbon sisters' father, depicted as a friendly and boyish figure, who increasingly isolates himself after personal family tragedies.
Mrs. Lisbon
Mrs. Lisbon
The mother of the Lisbon sisters, portrayed as strict and controlling, particularly regarding her daughters' lives and interactions with the outside world.
Cecilia Lisbon
Cecilia Lisbon
The youngest of the Lisbon sisters, whose unique outlook is noted early in the narrative, setting the stage for the events that follow.
Lux Lisbon
Lux Lisbon
Known for her alluring presence and rebellious streak, Lux is the second youngest of the sisters and draws significant attention from the neighborhood boys.
Therese Lisbon
Therese Lisbon
The eldest Lisbon sister, known for her intelligence and future aspirations during the course of the story.
Mary Lisbon
Mary Lisbon
Noted for her proper and reserved demeanor, Mary is one of the middle Lisbon sisters.
Bonnie Lisbon
Bonnie Lisbon
Characterized by her timidity, Bonnie is one of the elder sisters and is notable for the small but personal moments she shares with Lux.
Trip Fontaine
Trip Fontaine
A high school boy known for his charisma and romantic feelings towards Lux, playing a pivotal role in a key event involving the Lisbon sisters.
250
Novel • Fiction
Suburban Michigan • 1970s
1993
Adult
18+ years
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