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christynhoover's review against another edition
dark
funny
hopeful
informative
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.75
It's a complex & epic tale with multiple characters lives being followed from birth or childhood to old age. There are, yes, "ghosts" --and births and deaths, some of which are tragic, but it wraps up in a quiet, tender way. "No last chairlifts for [us], just last sentences." says the narrator.
As is typical of John Irving's novels, there is LOTS of gender and sexual politics/expression. Major 1940s to 2019 US historical events including the US political and ~religious landscape figure into the plotline and serve as backdrop.
It's just soooo long.
As is typical of John Irving's novels, there is LOTS of gender and sexual politics/expression. Major 1940s to 2019 US historical events including the US political and ~religious landscape figure into the plotline and serve as backdrop.
It's just soooo long.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content, Death, Gun violence, Infidelity, Lesbophobia, and Medical content
Moderate: Transphobia, War, and Terminal illness
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