Less cover
Good Books rating 3.9
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Technical
  • ID: 4281
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9780349143606
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2018-04-21
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Arthur Less, a struggling writer on the cusp of turning fifty, receives an invitation to his ex-boyfriend's wedding. Unable to face the awkwardness of attending or the defeat of declining, he accepts a series of literary invitations that take him around the world. From France to India, Arthur encounters a whirlwind of cultural misunderstandings, near-death experiences, and fleeting romances, all while running from the emotional turmoil he refuses to confront. The novel is a heartwarming and humorous exploration of love, loss, and the human condition, praised for its wit and charm by notable authors and critics alike. /n/n Less is not just a story about Arthur's physical journey but also his internal one. As he traverses continents, he grapples with his past, his present, and the uncertainties of his future. The narrative is filled with moments of levity and introspection, making it a compelling read that resonates with anyone who has ever tried to outrun their problems. The book's unique blend of humor and depth has earned it widespread acclaim, including the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.

Reviews
Booklover Book Reviews · Joanne P · 2025-02-25
recommended 4.20

The novel is highly recommended for readers with strong literary leanings, offering a unique and engaging narrative.

Joanne P highly recommends this novel, but with a caveat—it's best suited for readers who enjoy literary fiction. The narrative is uncommon and engaging, filled with rich prose and intricate storytelling. Joanne P appreciates the novel's depth and the way it explores the protagonist's journey with humor and tenderness. The book is a standout for those who enjoy thought-provoking and well-crafted literature, making it a must-read for literary enthusiasts.


Quick quotes

    Andrew Sean Greer's Less is a title I highly recommend, but only to those with strong literary leanings.

    The narrative is uncommon and engaging, filled with rich prose and intricate storytelling.

    The book is a standout for those who enjoy thought-provoking and well-crafted literature.

That's What She Read · 2020-08-11
poignant 3.00

The book is poignant and wistful, but the reviewer couldn't connect with the protagonist's struggles. It's a serious exploration of aging and identity.

This reviewer found the book to be deeply poignant and wistful, focusing on the life of a gay man growing older. They appreciated the serious themes and the exploration of identity, but struggled to connect with the protagonist's journey. The writing is emotional and introspective, but the reviewer felt a lack of empathy for the character's experiences. It's a novel that delves into the complexities of aging and self-discovery, making it a thought-provoking read for those interested in literary fiction.


Quick quotes

    It was a serious, poignant, wistful book about a gay man growing older, and I just couldn't go on—the pity wasn't in me for it.

    One day, I realized that I had to put the book down and walk away.

    The book is a poignant exploration of identity and aging, but it's not an easy read.

Reddit - r/literature · 2017-07-24
delightful 4.50

The book is highly recommended for its lively prose and on-point metaphors, making it a delightful read.

This Reddit reviewer highly recommends the book, praising its lively prose and the effectiveness of its metaphors. They find the writing to be engaging and the storytelling to be compelling. The reviewer appreciates the humor and the depth of the characters, making it a delightful and thought-provoking read. The book is a great choice for those looking for a well-written and engaging novel that combines humor and introspection.


Quick quotes

    If you have never read this book, I highly recommend it.

    His prose is very lively, his metaphors are on point.

    The book is a delightful and thought-provoking read.