Less

by Andrew Sean Greer
Less cover
Good Books rating 4.05
Contemporary Fiction
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Paperback • £10.99
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Technical
  • ID: 4281
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2026-01-05
  • ISBN: 9780349143606
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2018-04-21
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

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 around the world. From France to India, Arthur's journey is filled with comedic misadventures and near-misses, as he attempts to outrun his problems and, perhaps, find himself./n/nPraise for 'Less' has been overwhelmingly positive, with critics and readers alike lauding its humor, charm, and heart. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the human condition, all wrapped up in a delightfully witty and engaging narrative. Arthur's escapades and the people he meets along the way make for a captivating and unforgettable story.

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.

The New York Times · 2017-07-24
great 4.50

The book is described as the funniest, smartest, and most humane novel the reviewer has read in a long time, with a unique blend of humor and heart. The characters are endearing and the storytelling is top-notch.

This novel is a delightful blend of humor and heart, making it one of the most enjoyable reads in recent memory. The reviewer praises the book's witty dialogue and endearing characters, noting that the storytelling is both clever and deeply moving. The novel's exploration of themes like love, loss, and self-discovery is handled with a light touch, making it accessible and engaging for a wide range of readers. The reviewer particularly appreciates the book's unique voice and its ability to balance humor with emotional depth.

Quick quotes

    Less is the funniest, smartest and most humane novel I've read since Tom Rachman's 2010 debut, The Imperfectionists.

    The novel's exploration of themes like love, loss, and self-discovery is handled with a light touch.

    The reviewer particularly appreciates the book's unique voice and its ability to balance humor with emotional depth.

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