Eggshells

by Caitriona Lally
Eggshells cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Contemporary Fiction
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Paperback • £9.99
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Technical
  • ID: 3035
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780008324414
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 2018-09-20
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Eggshells is a captivating novel that has been celebrated for its inventive and humorous take on the universal feeling of being the odd one out. Praised by The Guardian as 'inventive, funny, and ultimately moving,' this book offers a unique perspective that resonates with readers who have ever felt out of place. The New York Times Book Review describes it as 'wildly funny,' while The Irish Times calls it 'beguiling,' highlighting its charm and originality. This modern Irish literary gem is a delightful read that combines wit and depth to create a memorable experience. The novel's quirky and endearing narrative style has earned it accolades and a dedicated readership. Its ability to blend humor with poignant moments makes it a standout in contemporary literature. Eggshells is not just a story; it's an exploration of identity and belonging that will leave readers both entertained and deeply moved.

Reviews
Karissa Reads Books · Karissa · 2021-02-22
thought-provoking 3.80

The book has moments of humor, but the protagonist's struggles make the reading experience uncomfortable. It's a unique and thought-provoking exploration of loneliness.

Karissa from Karissa Reads Books notes that while Eggshells has funny parts, the protagonist Vivian is not intended to be funny, which makes the reading experience uncomfortable. This discomfort is part of the book's strength, as it delves into the complexities of loneliness and the human condition. The reviewer appreciates the book's unique perspective and its ability to evoke a range of emotions, making it a memorable read.

Quick quotes

    The book has funny parts but Vivian herself isn't funny and we aren't meant to laugh at her or enjoy her differences.

    It's uncomfortable in the way that it makes you think about how you would react in similar situations.

    A unique and thought-provoking exploration of loneliness.

Books on the 747 · 2018-10-27
charming 4.20

The book is praised for its unique and lyrical writing style, which beautifully illustrates the story of Vivian's experiences. It's a charming and whimsical tale about loneliness and hope.

Books on the 747 highlights the unique and lyrical writing style of Eggshells, which beautifully illustrates Vivian's experiences. The reviewer finds the book charming and whimsical, with a touch of melancholy that adds depth to the narrative. The story's exploration of loneliness and hope is particularly noteworthy, making it a touching and memorable read. The lyrical prose and vivid descriptions enhance the overall reading experience, making it a standout in contemporary literature.

Quick quotes

    Overall this was a unique read with a lyrical writing style.

    There were some lovely sentences in there too: 'I wake on a damp pillow; my dreams ...'

    A charming and whimsical tale about loneliness and hope.

The Guardian · 2015-09-12
insightful 4.50

The book is praised for its insight and cleverness, though some readers may overlook its depth due to the protagonist's unique perspective. The narrative is engaging and thought-provoking.

The Guardian's review highlights the extraordinary insight and cleverness of Eggshells, noting that the protagonist Vivian's unique perspective might cause some readers to miss the book's depth. The narrative is described as engaging and thought-provoking, with Vivian's struggles and experiences offering a fresh take on loneliness and self-discovery. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to challenge conventional storytelling and its profound exploration of human emotions.

Quick quotes

    It's an extraordinarily insightful and clever book.

    I think the reason why so many readers miss this is that Vivian cannot bring herself to ...

    The narrative is engaging and thought-provoking.

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