50 pages • 1 hour read
Luis Alberto UrreaGood Night, Irene
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2023A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Good Night, Irene by Luis Alberto Urrea is a historical fiction novel following Red Cross volunteers Irene Woodward and Dorothy Dunford, who serve American troops during World War II by operating a Clubmobile that provides coffee, doughnuts, and companionship. The story explores their friendship, trauma, mental health, and wartime experiences, offering a poignant look at the resilience of women in conflict zones. The novel contains graphic descriptions of violence, sexual harassment, war-related trauma, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Luis Alberto Urrea's Good Night, Irene has been praised for its poignant storytelling and rich character development, drawing readers into its historical context. Critics appreciate Urrea’s lyrical prose and evocative descriptions. However, some find the pacing uneven and the narrative occasionally meandering. Overall, the novel is commended for its emotional depth and vivid atmosphere.
Who Should Read Good Night, Irene?
Good Night, Irene by Luis Alberto Urrea appeals to readers drawn to historical fiction and emotionally rich narratives. Fans of The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah or All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr will appreciate its exploration of friendship, resilience, and the human spirit set against the backdrop of World War II.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsBook Details
Historical Fiction
French Literature
WWII / World War II
Trauma / Abuse / Violence
Military / War
History: World
Relationships: Friendship
Emotions/Behavior: Courage
Life/Time: Mortality & Death