Nutshell

by Ian McEwan
Nutshell cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Literary Fiction
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 3144
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781911214335
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2016-08-29
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Nutshell is a unique and captivating novel that offers a fresh take on the classic tale of murder and deceit. Told from the perspective of an unborn baby, the story unfolds within the confines of a dilapidated London townhouse, where the narrator witnesses the sinister plot of his mother, Trudy, and her lover, Claude, against his father, John. The novel's innovative narrative voice and darkly humorous tone make it a standout work of contemporary fiction./n/nThe book has been widely acclaimed, earning the title of Number One Sunday Times bestseller and being named a Book of the Year by several prominent publications. Ian McEwan's masterful storytelling and the novel's exploration of complex themes such as betrayal, morality, and the human condition make Nutshell a compelling read that will leave readers questioning the nature of good and evil.

Reviews
All The Books I Can Read · 2023-08-14
engaging 4.00

The book is described as an engaging and interesting read, with a unique narrative perspective that makes it one of the better books the reviewer has read.

The reviewer finds the novel to be a refreshing and engaging read, largely due to its unconventional narrative perspective. They appreciate the author's creativity in reworking a classic story from such an unusual point of view. The reviewer also notes that while the concept might seem far-fetched, it adds a layer of intrigue and depth to the story, making it a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Quick quotes

    But if you just go with it, this is actually a really interesting and engaging read.

    And definitely one of the better books I've read as a ...

    The unique narrative perspective adds a layer of intrigue and depth to the story.

The New York Times · 2016-09-05
compelling 4.50

The novel is praised for its narrative precision and authority, showcasing the author's gifts in a small but impactful package.

The reviewer commends the novel for its narrative precision and the author's ability to convey a complex story with authority. They appreciate the clever conceit of the story and the unique perspective of the unborn protagonist. The reviewer also notes that the novel is a testament to the author's skill in crafting a compelling narrative that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

Quick quotes

    Like his 1998 novel, “Amsterdam,” “Nutshell” is a small tour de force that showcases all of Mr. McEwan's narrative gifts of precision, authority ...

    The clever conceit of the story adds a layer of depth and intrigue.

    A compelling narrative that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

The Guardian · 2016-08-27
masterful 4.50

The novel is praised for its brutal effectiveness in detailing the intricacies of murder, with a strong focus on the narrative's unique perspective. The reviewer finds it a masterpiece that beautifully captures the essence of the story.

The reviewer highlights the novel's unique narrative style, which provides a fresh and compelling take on a classic tale. They appreciate the meticulous attention to detail in the portrayal of the murder plot, making it a gripping and thought-provoking read. The reviewer also commends the author's ability to convey complex emotions and moral dilemmas through the eyes of an unborn narrator.

Quick quotes

    So McEwan makes the story over into a brutally effective howdunnit, magnificently strong on the details of murder: the hats, gloves and waxed ...

    An elegiac masterpiece that beautifully captures the essence of the story.

    The novel is a testament to McEwan's skill in crafting a narrative that is both engaging and deeply moving.

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