West Side Story
West Side Story
Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1990
Book Brief
Beta160
Play • Fiction
New York City • 1950s
1990
Adult
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
Irving Shulman's West Side Story novelizes the famous musical by Leonard Bernstein, Stephen Sondheim, and Arthur Laurents. The story explores the rivalry between two teenage street gangs of different ethnic backgrounds and the romance that develops between a young man and a young woman amidst the conflict.
Reviews & Readership
19,611 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
West Side Story by Irving Shulman brings the beloved musical to the page with energy and fidelity. Reviewers praise its vivid portrayal of youthful passion and conflict but note that it sometimes lacks the depth of the original stage production. The novel's fast pace engages readers, though some find character development insufficient. Overall, it's an enjoyable companion to the musical.
Who Should Read West Side Story?
A reader who would enjoy West Side Story by Irving Shulman typically appreciates poignant, contemporary retellings of classic tales. Comparable to those who love Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare or The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton, this audience favors stories of youthful passion, conflict, and societal struggles within an urban setting.
19,611 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
160
Play • Fiction
New York City • 1950s
1990
Adult
14-18 years
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