54 pages 1 hour read

Elif Batuman

Either/Or

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2022

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Either/Or by Elif Batuman follows Selin Karadag, a sophomore at Harvard College, as she navigates her academic and personal life, grapples with the aftermath of a confusing pseudo-relationship, and strives to understand her own identity and desires. As Selin explores literature, relationships, and new experiences domestically and abroad, she seeks to translate her fragmented reality into a cohesive narrative. The book depicts experiences with mental health and depression.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Elif Batuman's Either/Or is applauded for its witty, introspective narrative and engaging exploration of a young woman's intellectual and personal growth. Some critics, however, find the pacing uneven and the protagonist's musings occasionally overindulgent. Overall, it's a thought-provoking sequel with rich literary references, appealing mainly to fans of cerebral fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Either/Or?

Readers who enjoy Either/Or by Elif Batuman are typically fans of literary fiction infused with intellectual exploration and humor. They appreciate introspective narratives similar to Sally Rooney's Normal People and Ottessa Moshfegh's My Year of Rest and Relaxation, blending personal growth with philosophical musings.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Coming of Age / Bildungsroman

Education

Modern Classic Fiction

Themes

Values/Ideas: Literature

Identity: Language

Identity: Sexuality

Topics

Love / Sexuality

Women's Studies (Nonfiction)

Education