We Are Not Ourselves
656
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1940s-2010s
2014
Adult
18+ years
We Are Not Ourselves by Matthew Thomas is a 2014 debut novel that follows Eileen Tumulty Leary from a challenging childhood with her alcoholic father and depressed mother, through her academic achievements, marriage to scientist Ed Leary, the birth of their son Connell, and the struggles the family faces as Ed develops early-onset Alzheimer’s. The narrative highlights Eileen's resilience and dedication amid life's trials. Sensitive topics include alcoholism, domestic violence, and mental health issues.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Bittersweet
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We Are Not Ourselves by Matthew Thomas is praised for its poignant depiction of an Irish-American family's struggles with illness and ambition. Reviewers commend the depth of character development and emotional resonance. However, some critics note pacing issues and an occasionally overwhelming narrative detail. Overall, it is a moving and intricate family saga.
Readers who appreciate We Are Not Ourselves by Matthew Thomas will likely enjoy deeply moving, multigenerational family sagas. Fans of Jonathan Franzen’s The Corrections or Jeffrey Eugenides' Middlesex will find the intricate character development and exploration of the American dream particularly compelling.
38,461 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
We Are Not Ourselves was a finalist for the 2014 James Tait Black Prize for Fiction, Britain's oldest literary award.
Matthew Thomas spent ten years writing We Are Not Ourselves, balancing his work as a full-time high school teacher with crafting the novel.
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The novel was named one of The New York Times Book Review's 100 Notable Books of 2014, highlighting its critical acclaim.
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656
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1940s-2010s
2014
Adult
18+ years
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