Atonement

by Ian McEwan
Atonement cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Literary Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 628
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-09-18
  • ISBN: 9780099597636
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2014-01-01
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99 Hardback • £14.99

On a scorching summer day in 1934, thirteen-year-old Briony Tallis witnesses a moment that changes everything. Her sister Cecilia's impulsive act and Robbie Turner's presence lead to a misunderstanding that will alter their lives forever. Briony's imagination runs wild, leading to a crime that she will spend her life trying to atone for. The novel explores themes of guilt, forgiveness, and the power of storytelling, set against the backdrop of a changing world./n/nIan McEwan's masterful prose and intricate character development make 'Atonement' a compelling exploration of human nature and the consequences of our actions. The novel spans decades, from the English countryside to the battlefields of World War II, offering a rich tapestry of historical and emotional depth.

Reviews
Read Watch Drink Coffee · 2024-02-17
heartbreaking 4.75

The novel is described as a heartbreaking and thought-provoking story that delves into themes of guilt and regret. It is seen as a powerful and impactful read.

Read Watch Drink Coffee finds Atonement to be a deeply moving and thought-provoking novel that explores the themes of guilt and regret with great depth. The reviewer highlights the novel's ability to strike a powerful emotional chord, making it a memorable and impactful read. The story's multi-layered narrative and its exploration of human emotions are particularly praised.

Quick quotes

    A multi-layered story of guilt and regret, it's a heartbreaking and thought-provoking story that strikes a powerful blow.

    The novel's exploration of guilt and regret is both profound and affecting.

    Atonement is a deeply moving and impactful read that stays with the reader long after finishing.

Stargazer Online · 2023-02-12
thoughtful 4.50

The novel is praised for its layered complexity and the depth of themes it explores. It invites extensive discussion on various interpretations and connections.

Stargazer Online highlights the cleverness and depth of Ian McEwan's Atonement, noting its rich thematic content. The review emphasizes the novel's ability to provoke thought and discussion, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy analyzing literary works. The intricate connections and interpretations within the story are particularly noteworthy, adding layers of meaning that enhance the reading experience.

Quick quotes

    The layered novel is exceedingly clever and there is much to be discussed with respect to themes, concepts, connections and interpretations.

    Atonement is a masterclass in storytelling that invites readers to delve deep into its layers.

    The novel's complexity makes it a rewarding read for those who enjoy thoughtful analysis.

The New Yorker · 2002-02-24
engaging 4.00

The review notes the novel's period feel and gravitas, highlighting McEwan's skill in concealing deeper themes. It is seen as a departure from his usual style.

The New Yorker's review points out that Atonement feels different from McEwan's other works, with a more period feel and a tone of gravitas. The reviewer appreciates McEwan's ability to conceal deeper themes within the narrative, making it a unique and engaging read. Despite its departure from his usual style, the novel is praised for its depth and the way it handles complex themes.

Quick quotes

    Not that this is a staid book, but it has a period feel and a tone of seasoned gravitas.

    What McEwan does return to here is the concealment of his undoubted ...

    Atonement is a departure from McEwan's usual style, offering a unique reading experience.

Appears in Lists