36 pages • 1 hour read
Sally Rooney, Lisa KleypasNormal People
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018A 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
Normal People by Sally Rooney follows Connell, a boy from a lower-middle-class background, and Marianne, a girl from a wealthy family, as they navigate the complexities of their intimate yet secretive relationship throughout their school years and into university in Dublin. They experience fluctuating social dynamics, emotional challenges, and personal growth while maintaining an impactful, if sometimes tumultuous, connection. The book includes instances of domestic abuse, psychological distress, and sexual violence.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Sally Rooney's Normal People receives widespread acclaim for its nuanced portrayal of young love and complex emotional dynamics. Rooney's prose is celebrated for its clarity and emotional depth. However, some critics find the characters' indecisiveness frustrating. Despite this, the novel's exploration of intimacy and social class resonates strongly with many readers.
Who Should Read Normal People?
Fans of introspective, character-driven stories will enjoy Sally Rooney's Normal People. Similar to works like One Day by David Nicholls and A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara, it appeals to readers who appreciate nuanced relationships, coming-of-age themes, and the exploration of social and class dynamics.