58 pages • 1 hour read
What's Eating Gilbert Grape
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Book Brief
336
Novel • Fiction
Endora, Iowa • 1990s
1991
YA
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Set in 1989, Peter Hedges' debut novel, What's Eating Gilbert Grape, follows young Gilbert Grape in Endora, Iowa, whose life is dominated by his responsibilities toward his family, including his mother, whose severe obesity confines her to their home, and his younger brother Arnie, who has an intellectual disability.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Emotional
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
19,105 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Peter Hedges' What's Eating Gilbert Grape is widely praised for its heartfelt portrayal of small-town life and complex family dynamics. Reviewers commend its authentic characters and emotional depth. However, some critics find the pacing sluggish and feel the narrative could be more focused. Overall, it's a touching exploration of personal struggle and community.
Who Should Read What's Eating Gilbert Grape?
Fans of character-driven stories grappling with familial duty and personal aspirations would enjoy What's Eating Gilbert Grape by Peter Hedges. Similar to readers of The Perks of Being a Wallflower and The Secret Life of Bees, these readers appreciate emotionally resonant, small-town narratives focused on personal growth.
19,105 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
336
Novel • Fiction
Endora, Iowa • 1990s
1991
YA
18+ years
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