The Names

by Don DeLillo, Florence Knapp
The Names cover
Good Books rating 4.69
Literary Fiction
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Paperback • £9.99–£12.99 Hardback • £13.99
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  • ID: 2365
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9780735250147
  • Publisher: Penguin Group
  • Published: 2025-05-06
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 4

In the aftermath of a massive storm, Cora, a woman trapped in an abusive marriage, makes a bold choice when registering her newborn son's name, defying her husband's wishes. This decision sparks three distinct narratives, each exploring the ripple effects of domestic abuse, the complexities of family dynamics, and the power of personal autonomy. The novel's innovative structure weaves together the stories of Cora, her son, and their extended family over three decades, revealing how a single moment can shape multiple futures. /n/nWith richly layered prose and emotional depth, The Names delves into the messy ties of family and the possibilities of healing. The book's propulsive storytelling and imaginative structure make it a poignant exploration of identity, resilience, and the choices that define our lives.

Reviews
Carpe Librum · 2025-05-26
unforgettable 5.00

An unforgettable read that highlights the power of a name, making it one of the best books of the year.

This reviewer was deeply moved by the power of the name and its impact on the characters' lives. The story is beautifully crafted, making it an unforgettable read. The reviewer considers it one of their favorite books of the year, praising its emotional depth and the way it explores the significance of something as seemingly simple as a name.

Quick quotes

    The Names by Florence Knapp was an unforgettable read about the power of a name.

    This is one of my favourite books of 2025 and I gave it 5 stars.

    The novel's exploration of the impact of a name on one's life is both profound and moving.

Newcity Lit · 2025-05-05
compelling 4.50

The novel creates a palpable sense of dread while also offering moments of whimsy, making it a compelling and emotionally layered read.

This reviewer was struck by the novel's ability to evoke a deep sense of dread from the very beginning, which is balanced by moments of whimsy. The exploration of these contrasting emotions makes the book a compelling and emotionally rich experience. The reviewer appreciates the intricate way the story unfolds, creating a powerful narrative that lingers long after the last page.

Quick quotes

    It's a compelling novel that fills one with an actual physical sense of dread, from the first words on the first page, and yet also offers glimpses of whimsy.

    The novel's strength lies in its ability to balance these contrasting emotions, making it a deeply engaging read.

    The Names is a book that stays with you, its themes and characters resonating long after you've turned the final page.

Linda's Book Bag · 2025-04-30
profound 4.75

A profound and emotional exploration of nature versus nurture, with a strong emphasis on destiny and self-determinism.

This reviewer found the book to be a beautiful and profound exploration of the themes of nature and nurture. The way the story delves into the concepts of destiny and self-determinism is particularly noteworthy, making it an emotional and thought-provoking read. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the characters and the intricate plot that keeps the reader engaged throughout.

Quick quotes

    This book is a beautiful, profound and emotional exploration of nature and nurture, with destiny and self-determinism that suffuses the entire narrative.

    The characters are deeply developed, making their journeys and decisions feel incredibly real and relatable.

    The Names is a book that will stay with you, its themes and characters resonating long after you've finished reading.

Biblioklept · 2018-04-07
thought-provoking 4.50

The novel's appeal lies in DeLillo's riffs on language and meaning in a postmodern era. The language cult is not socioculturally realistic but rather a philosophical exploration.

The reviewer at Biblioklept highlights the great appeal of 'The Names' as DeLillo's riffs on language and meaning in a postmodern era. They note that the language cult in the novel is not portrayed as socioculturally realistic but rather as a philosophical exploration. This approach makes the novel a unique and thought-provoking read. The reviewer appreciates the depth and complexity of DeLillo's treatment of language, which adds layers of meaning and intrigue to the story.

Quick quotes

    "The Names' great appeal is DeLillo's riffs on language and meaning in a postmodern era."

    "The language cult isn't some socioculturally-realistic ..."

    "... but rather a philosophical exploration."

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