Nutshell

by Ian McEwan
Nutshell cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Literary Fiction
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 3144
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2026-02-22
  • ISBN: 9781911214335
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2016-08-29
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Nutshell is a unique and captivating story that unfolds from the perspective of an unborn child, offering a fresh and intriguing take on a classic tale of deceit and murder. The novel is set in a dilapidated yet priceless London townhouse, where Trudy, the wife of John, has betrayed her husband with his brother, Claude. The inquisitive nine-month-old resident of Trudy's womb witnesses their sinister plot, providing a narrative that is both chilling and deeply human. Ian McEwan, known for his masterful storytelling, delivers a narrative that is both darkly comedic and profoundly moving. The novel explores themes of love, betrayal, and the complexities of human nature, all while maintaining a suspenseful and engaging plot. Nutshell is a testament to McEwan's skill as a writer, blending literary prowess with a compelling story that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

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.

Copy and Tea · 2018-01-21
clever 3.00

The book is exceptionally clever but a little unsatisfying to read, not designed to be a copy of anything.

They appreciated the cleverness of the novel and the unique narrative perspective. However, they found it a bit unsatisfying in terms of the reading experience. The story is inventive and thought-provoking, but it doesn't quite hit the mark in terms of emotional engagement. They acknowledge its cleverness but feel it lacks depth in some areas.

Quick quotes

    An exceptionally clever book

    A little unsatisfying to read

    Not designed to be a copy of anything

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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