A review by csharp
Normal People by Sally Rooney

challenging dark emotional reflective sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

  • Although I rated this book 5 ⭐️ there is one identifiable flaw: NO QUOTATION MARKS. Sally Rooney you are truly insane for that. 
  • Note to self and any others who come across this review: If you were looking for a lighthearted cozy read, get this book out of your sight. This book has caused me physical pain. 
  • There is no way I can accurately describe the appeal of this book and why I loved it so much. There is no traditional storyline, I have a very real vendetta against Marianne the MC (but also I want to give her a big hug at the same time), and a lot of the time it seems this book is devoid of anything uplifting or encouraging.
  • Yet I could not peel my eyes away from this book. The characterisation of Connell and Marianne is extravagant and all too real. Their struggles with finding themselves is a bit too relatable and their relationship is a beautiful mess that I could not get enough of. The way they understand each other and are connected no matter what is such a beautiful thing to see pan out. 
  • The end of this absolutely broke me. I physically winced and groaned in pain as I read the last line of the story:
    You should go, she says. I’ll always be here. You know that.
    SOMEBODY SEDATE ME. I didn’t sob but tears were shed. 
  • This book has greatly impacted my brain chemistry, I feel as though I need to own a physical copy of this book and keep it close to me always. I believe part of why it resonates so much with me is the way Rooney writes about anxiety makes me feel seen and is comforting. 
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