This Side of Paradise

This Side of Paradise cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Technical
  • ID: 10309
  • Added: 2026-01-24
  • Updated: 2026-02-03
  • ISBN: 9788726606003
  • Publisher: Lindhardt og Ringhof
  • Published: 2021-11-17
  • Formats: 5
  • Reviews: 3

F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'This Side of Paradise' delves into the complex lives and values of American youth in the aftermath of the First World War. The novel follows the handsome and idealistic student Amory Blaine, whose experiences serve as a symbol for an entire generation. Written in a semi-autobiographical tone, the narrative captures Amory's ups and downs, love episodes, and interior life, offering a poignant look at contemporary American adolescence and young manhood. /n/n This lyrical and passionate tale skyrocketed Fitzgerald's fame and paved the way for his marriage to Zelda. As one of the greatest American novelists of the 20th century, Fitzgerald's writing vividly illustrates the 1920s Jazz Age, of which he and Zelda were central figures. 'This Side of Paradise' is a must-read for fans and scholars of Fitzgerald and American literature.

Reviews
Bookmarks Reviews · New York Times · 2020-07-14
fascinating 4.50

The book is praised for its youthful spirit and near-perfect execution. It captures the essence of youth in a fascinating and engaging manner.

The reviewer from the New York Times was highly impressed with 'This Side of Paradise', praising its youthful spirit and near-perfect execution. They found the book to be fascinating and engaging, capturing the essence of youth in a way that resonates with readers. The reviewer highlighted the novel's ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, making it a memorable and impactful read. They appreciated Fitzgerald's skill in crafting a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.


Quick quotes

    The glorious spirit of abounding youth glows throughout this fascinating tale

    This book is as nearly perfect as such a work could be

    It captures the essence of youth in a fascinating and engaging manner

enjoyable 4.00

The novel was unexpectedly enjoyable, with Fitzgerald's writing standing out in surprising ways. It offers a fresh perspective on the author's early work.

The reviewer didn't expect to enjoy this novel as much as they did. Fitzgerald's writing in 'This Side of Paradise' was found to be particularly engaging and unexpected. The reviewer appreciated the fresh perspective it offered on the author's early work, making it a standout read. They highlighted how the novel's charm and wit made it a delightful experience, despite initial reservations.


Quick quotes

    I really didn't expect to enjoy this novel as much as I did

    Fitzgerald's writing stands out in unexpected ways

    This Side of Paradise was enjoyable in unexpected ways

Vandegrift Voice · 2015-11-04
enjoyable 3.50

The book provides insight into the author's life and psyche, making it an enjoyable read. However, it may not be as impactful as some of Fitzgerald's later works.

The reviewer found 'This Side of Paradise' to be an enjoyable read, particularly for the background information it provides about Fitzgerald's life and psyche. They appreciated the novel's depth and the way it offers a glimpse into the author's early thoughts and experiences. However, they noted that it may not be as polished or impactful as some of Fitzgerald's later works, making it a good but not exceptional read.


Quick quotes

    It provides the reader with a good deal of background information about his own life and psyche

    It's an enjoyable read

    Not what I'd consider a masterpiece