Never Let Me Go

by Kazuo Ishiguro
Never Let Me Go cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
Technical:
  • ID: 598
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-09-18
  • ISBN: 9780571249381
  • Publisher: Faber & Faber
  • Published: 2009-01-08
  • Formats: 5
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99 Hardback • £16.99–£20.00

Never Let Me Go is a poignant and thought-provoking novel by Nobel Prize-winning author Kazuo Ishiguro. The story is narrated by Kathy, who reflects on her childhood at the mysterious Hailsham School and the profound impact it had on her life. As she recounts her experiences, the novel delves into the complex relationships and emotional struggles of the students, who are gradually revealed to have a dark and unsettling destiny. The narrative is charged with a sense of melancholy and the inevitability of fate, making it a deeply moving exploration of memory and human connection. The novel has been widely praised for its masterful storytelling and imaginative sympathy, earning accolades such as being shortlisted for the Booker Prize and named one of the top novels of the twenty-first century by The Sunday Times. Ishiguro's evocative prose and the haunting atmosphere of the story have captivated readers, making Never Let Me Go a modern classic that continues to resonate with audiences.

Reviews
the starving artist · Devontre Varrow Flaherty · 2023-08-21
surprising 4.00

The book is a pleasant surprise with elements of YA, sci-fi, and romance, offering a unique blend of genres.

This reviewer was pleasantly surprised by the book's blend of YA, sci-fi, and romance, which they didn't expect going into it. They found the combination refreshing and engaging, making it a enjoyable read. The story's unique mix of genres adds a layer of intrigue and keeps the reader interested throughout. The reviewer appreciates the fresh perspective it brings to the table.

Quick quotes

    Never Let Me Go is YA with a whiff of sci-fi and a romance.

    I didn't know that going into it, but I was pleasantly surprised.

    It's a pleasant surprise with elements of YA, sci-fi, and romance.

Books On Tour · 2022-05-25
thoughtful 4.20

The story is enjoyed for its dystopian elements and thought-provoking themes, making it a compelling read.

This reviewer enjoyed the story for its dystopian elements and the interesting topics it raises. They find the book compelling and thought-provoking, touching on bases that make it a standout in the genre. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the themes and the way the story keeps the reader engaged. It's a book that invites reflection and discussion, making it a valuable addition to any reader's list.

Quick quotes

    I must say I enjoyed the story.

    The topic is very interesting and raises a lot of questions.

    This one touches all the bases.

The Guardian · 2016-07-04
haunting 4.50

The novel is described as sad, complex, and haunting, raising profound questions about family, memory, exploitation, and the concept of 'othering'.

This reviewer finds the book deeply moving and thought-provoking. They appreciate how it tackles heavy themes with a haunting and complex narrative. The story's exploration of family, memory, and exploitation leaves a lasting impact, making it a novel that lingers in the mind long after reading. The concept of 'othering' is particularly highlighted, showing how society treats those deemed different.

Quick quotes

    This is a sad, complex, haunting novel which raises huge questions about family, memory, exploitation and 'othering'.

    The novel's exploration of 'othering' is particularly poignant.

    It's a book that lingers in the mind long after reading.

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