A Prayer for Owen Meany

by John Irving
A Prayer for Owen Meany cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Technical
  • ID: 4025
  • Added: 2025-10-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-20
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
Reddit - r/books · 2025-10-20
brilliant 5.00

The book is described as smart, well-written, and profound. The reviewer is so impressed that they want to read it again, which is unusual for them.

The Reddit reviewer describes 'A Prayer for Owen Meany' as a smart and profoundly written novel that left a lasting impact on them. They mention that the book's depth and quality are so high that they feel compelled to read it again, which is something they rarely do. This high praise speaks to the novel's ability to resonate deeply with its readers.

Quick quotes

    It's such a smart, well written, profound book.

    I'm not one to re-read books usually, but I definitely wanna read this again.

    The book's depth and quality are so high.

Literary Morning · 2024-08-27
good 4.00

The novel is praised for its reflective nature and its exploration of coming-of-age themes. The themes of faith and fate are highlighted as particularly strong elements.

The reviewer from Literary Morning highlights 'A Prayer for Owen Meany' as a deeply reflective coming-of-age story. They appreciate how the novel weaves themes of faith and fate throughout, creating a rich tapestry of personal growth and introspection. The reviewer finds these elements to be the heart of the book, making it a compelling read.

Quick quotes

    At its heart, though, the book is a coming-of-age story, and is very reflective.

    Throughlines on themes of faith and fate that hold all the ...

    The novel is praised for its reflective nature.

The Guardian · 1989-06-05
intriguing 3.50

The book is seen as a critique of America's dependence on heroes, but the approach is considered unconventional. Themes of faith and fate are deeply explored, making it a reflective read.

The reviewer from The Guardian views 'A Prayer for Owen Meany' as a commentary on America's reliance on heroic figures, though they find Irving's method of delivering this message quite unusual. They appreciate the novel's exploration of faith and fate, which adds depth and makes it a thought-provoking read. The novel's blend of personal storytelling and broader social commentary is noted as particularly striking.

Quick quotes

    A Prayer for Owen Meany ought to be a warning about America's dependence on heroes.

    Irving has a very odd way of going about it.

    Themes of faith and fate are deeply explored.

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