Normal People

by Sally Rooney
Normal People cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Literary Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 616
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-09-18
  • ISBN: 9786022916512
  • Publisher: Bentang Pustaka
  • Published: 2020-01-01
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99 Hardback • £20.00

'Normal People' delves into the intricate dynamics of a relationship between two individuals from different social backgrounds. Connel, a popular boy in school, struggles with the expectations of others, while Marianne, considered an outcast, finds solace in their connection. As they transition to college, their roles reverse, and their relationship becomes more complicated, filled with trauma, anxiety, and self-doubt. The novel beautifully captures the essence of young love and the struggles of growing up, making it a modern classic. /n/nThe story is not just about romance but also about the complexities of family, friendship, and the societal pressures that shape our identities. It's a profound exploration of human behavior and the psychological conflicts that arise from our interactions and experiences.

Reviews
Writers Block Magazine · 2022-04-28
Engaging 4.00

The novel is character-driven with minimal plot, which the reviewer found engaging. The dialogue is seen as a strong point, driving the narrative forward.

The reviewer finds the novel to be very character-driven, with a focus on dialogue rather than extensive descriptions or plot. This minimalist approach is seen as a strength, encouraging readers to engage deeply with the characters. The reviewer appreciates the way the story unfolds through the interactions between the characters, making it a unique and compelling read. The novel's exploration of different psychological outcomes and social dynamics is also highlighted as noteworthy.

Quick quotes

    Normal People is a very character-driven novel, stripped down to dialogue with few descriptions and little plot.

    The novel shows the different psychological outcomes that can come from mental and physical abuse, an absent father, and social and economic disparities.

    The dialogue is the driving force behind the narrative, making it a unique and compelling read.

Lucy Danser · 2021-09-20
Enjoyable 4.50

The book is described as a pacy and enjoyable read with a lot of interesting ideas packed into it. The reviewer was surprised by the depth of the novel's themes.

The reviewer found the book to be a fast-paced and enjoyable read, with a lot of interesting ideas and themes woven throughout. They were surprised to realize, upon reflection, just how much depth the novel contains. The story is engaging and thought-provoking, with the reviewer appreciating the way the author explores complex emotional and social issues. The novel's pacing is praised, making it a compelling read from start to finish.

Quick quotes

    The book is such a pacy, enjoyable read that it surprises me to sit and think now of all the interesting ideas Rooney has stuffed in there.

    It's a fast-paced and enjoyable read with a lot of depth.

    The novel's pacing is praised, making it a compelling read from start to finish.

The Guardian · 2018-09-01
Fantastic 4.50

The novel is praised for its emotional depth and the author's ability to capture the complexities of young adult relationships. The reviewer was captivated by the story and read it in two sittings.

The reviewer was thoroughly engaged by the book, reading it in just two sittings. They highlight the novel's emotional depth and the author's skill in portraying the intricacies of young adult relationships. The story is described as fantastic, with a deep intelligence at its heart. The reviewer appreciates the frankness with which the characters' emotions and experiences are portrayed, making it a deeply satisfying read.

Quick quotes

    It's fantastic. So good, in fact, that I think I read it too fast, inhaling the words.

    This is a beautiful novel with a deep and satisfying intelligence at its heart.

    It's emotionally and sexually admirably frank.

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