Billy Liar by Keith Waterhouse

187 pages first pub 1959 (editions)

fiction play funny reflective slow-paced
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Billy Liar by Keith Waterhouse is a witty and poignant coming-of-age tale that will resonate with readers who have ever felt trapped in their circumstances, seeking escape and self-discovery, and will appreciate the humor and poignancy of a relatable protagonist's journey to find his true identity.

Description

Billy Liar captures brilliantly the claustrophobic atmosphere of a small town. It tells the story of Billy Fisher, a Yorkshire teenager unable to stop lying - especially to his three girlfriends. Trapped by his boring job and working-class parents...

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Community Reviews Summary of 221 reviews

Moods

funny 83%
lighthearted 58%
reflective 50%
sad 33%
adventurous 16%
emotional 16%
informative 8%

Pace

medium 41%
slow 33%
fast 25%

Plot- or character-driven?

Character: 75% | A mix: 25%

Strong character development?

It's complicated: 66% | No: 25% | Yes: 8%

Loveable characters?

No: 58% | It's complicated: 33% | N/A: 8%

Diverse cast of characters?

No: 91% | N/A: 8%

Flaws of characters a main focus?

Yes: 100%

Average rating

3.58

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Content Warnings

Submitted by users as part of their reviews

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