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John Irving

The World According To Garp

John IrvingFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1978

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Book Brief

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John Irving

The World According To Garp

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1978
Book Details
Pages

510

Format

Novel • Fiction

Publication Year

1978

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The World According to Garp by John Irving explores the life of T. S. Garp, from his unconventional conception by his independent mother, Jenny Fields, through his own tumultuous experiences as a writer, husband, and father, touching on themes of feminism, literary ambition, and family dynamics, while also highlighting the complexities of gender and sexual politics. The book includes graphic depictions of sexual violence, derogatory language, and violence against children.

Emotional

Mysterious

Bittersweet

Humorous

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.3

234,517 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

John Irving's The World According to Garp impresses with its complex characters and unique narrative style, blending dark humor and tragedy. Critics praise its exploration of themes like feminism, family, and the unpredictability of life. However, some find the plot meandering and the tone uneven. Overall, it's a thought-provoking and memorable read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The World According To Garp?

Readers who enjoy deeply layered, character-driven narratives with a blend of tragedy and humor will appreciate The World According to Garp by John Irving. Fans of Jonathan Franzen's The Corrections or David Foster Wallace's Infinite Jest will find similar themes of family dynamics and existential contemplation.

4.3

234,517 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

510

Format

Novel • Fiction

Publication Year

1978

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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