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A review by caitlynischeckedout
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
5.0
I think I read this book right when I needed it. Though it features heavy subject matter, I think it places the emphasis on the journey through the dark experiences people have and not just the event itself. I liked the depiction of Eleanor’s therapy- how it’s not just a straight forward “you’re cured now!” and how she works through her journey.
I also really liked the way it handled Raymond trying to give Eleanor information before she was ready for it and the emphasis she places on this being her journey and that she will learn it when she’s ready for it. Though I really loved their friendship in general- the way it grew throughout the story was so enjoyable to read and it truly was such a pure friendship.
The way loneliness is portrayed here was so powerful to me and the way we so often take things for granted- like simply having someone to speak to over a weekend. Self worth was also a big theme and not attaching it to the traumatic events that happen to us.
Though there was a “mystery” of sorts in this book, and some parts of it were easy to guess at, it’s not a thriller and so I don’t feel that takes away from the strength of the reveals.
I’m so glad I thrifted this randomly one day- I will definitely be rereading this book.
I also really liked the way it handled Raymond trying to give Eleanor information before she was ready for it and the emphasis she places on this being her journey and that she will learn it when she’s ready for it. Though I really loved their friendship in general- the way it grew throughout the story was so enjoyable to read and it truly was such a pure friendship.
The way loneliness is portrayed here was so powerful to me and the way we so often take things for granted- like simply having someone to speak to over a weekend. Self worth was also a big theme and not attaching it to the traumatic events that happen to us.
Though there was a “mystery” of sorts in this book, and some parts of it were easy to guess at, it’s not a thriller and so I don’t feel that takes away from the strength of the reveals.
I’m so glad I thrifted this randomly one day- I will definitely be rereading this book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcoholism, Child abuse, Domestic abuse, and Suicidal thoughts
Minor: Rape and Sexual assault