wanderaven's review against another edition
4.0
Midway through the excellent audiobook of this, I was so excited about it that I went against my better judgment and looked up some goodreads reviews. On the whole, it seems well received, but I have a couple friends in whose bookish opinions I trust for whom this didn't work. This surprised me but then I considered that had I been in a different mindset or possibly even not listening to the audiobook, I might just as easily been turned away.
I'm not sure why this is; I suppose it feels like the reader needs to be in a certain frame of mind to stick with such a character; for me, the payoff was definitely worth it. Eleanor is a character I loved getting to know, to grow to understand and empathize with her. I loved how her backstory was revealed. I wasn't terribly surprised by any of the twists, particularly the one that came in the final few pages, but I'm not sure that it mattered - this story feels more about the loneliness of a vulnerable person and how she relates to the world. Her actions aren't excused, necessarily, by her history, but it's easy to understand why she does as she does, and her transition into a kinder, more empathic person seems believable and smooth to me.
The audiobook is excellently narrated. For some reason, I was convinced that this wasn't Honeyman's first book and was disappointed to discover that it was. I will eagerly await what comes next!
I'm not sure why this is; I suppose it feels like the reader needs to be in a certain frame of mind to stick with such a character; for me, the payoff was definitely worth it. Eleanor is a character I loved getting to know, to grow to understand and empathize with her. I loved how her backstory was revealed. I wasn't terribly surprised by any of the twists, particularly the one that came in the final few pages, but I'm not sure that it mattered - this story feels more about the loneliness of a vulnerable person and how she relates to the world. Her actions aren't excused, necessarily, by her history, but it's easy to understand why she does as she does, and her transition into a kinder, more empathic person seems believable and smooth to me.
The audiobook is excellently narrated. For some reason, I was convinced that this wasn't Honeyman's first book and was disappointed to discover that it was. I will eagerly await what comes next!
alyssadaily's review against another edition
DNF @ 12%. Eleanor is unlikable (and not in the way I typically enjoy) and unrealistic. Maybe I'll try later, but I really couldn't get into the story enough to keep going.
hannchilada's review against another edition
5.0
This book had a rather slow start that lacked a motivated plot, a reason for which I might give it 4.5 stars instead of 5. However, the rest of the book was so sincere, engaging, and uniquely toned that I couldn’t consider bumping it down to a 4.
kulit's review against another edition
emotional
funny
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
bigblackclock's review against another edition
dark
emotional
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
"Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman is a profoundly moving and thought-provoking novel that grips your heart from the very first page. Honeyman's storytelling is nothing short of extraordinary, crafting a tale that is both heartbreaking and heartwarming in equal measure.
In this captivating narrative, Honeyman introduces us to Eleanor Oliphant, a socially awkward and isolated woman whose unique perspective on life offers readers a glimpse into the depths of loneliness and human resilience. Through Honeyman's expertly crafted prose, Eleanor's voice comes alive, painting a vivid picture of her daily struggles and the walls she has built around her heart.
What makes this novel truly exceptional is its ability to seamlessly blend moments of humor and poignancy. Eleanor's quirks and observations provide comic relief, while the underlying themes of trauma, loneliness, and the power of human connection tug at your heartstrings. As the layers of Eleanor's past are gradually peeled away, the reader is taken on an emotional rollercoaster, experiencing her pain, growth, and eventual self-discovery alongside her.
Honeyman's characterization is masterful; Eleanor is a complex, multi-dimensional protagonist who elicits both sympathy and admiration. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, adding depth and authenticity to the story. The relationships that unfold, particularly Eleanor's unlikely friendship with Raymond, are portrayed with sensitivity and grace, highlighting the transformative power of genuine human connection.
Moreover, Honeyman tackles sensitive topics such as mental health, trauma, and the importance of empathy with a delicate touch. She navigates these themes with respect and compassion, offering a realistic portrayal of the challenges many individuals face while emphasizing the importance of kindness and understanding.
In conclusion, "Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine" is a triumph of storytelling. Gail Honeyman has created a masterpiece that resonates long after the final chapter. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, reminding us all that even in the face of unimaginable pain, healing, love, and redemption are possible. This novel is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeply emotional and uplifting journey through the complexities of the human experience.
"Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman is a profoundly moving and thought-provoking novel that grips your heart from the very first page. Honeyman's storytelling is nothing short of extraordinary, crafting a tale that is both heartbreaking and heartwarming in equal measure.
In this captivating narrative, Honeyman introduces us to Eleanor Oliphant, a socially awkward and isolated woman whose unique perspective on life offers readers a glimpse into the depths of loneliness and human resilience. Through Honeyman's expertly crafted prose, Eleanor's voice comes alive, painting a vivid picture of her daily struggles and the walls she has built around her heart.
What makes this novel truly exceptional is its ability to seamlessly blend moments of humor and poignancy. Eleanor's quirks and observations provide comic relief, while the underlying themes of trauma, loneliness, and the power of human connection tug at your heartstrings. As the layers of Eleanor's past are gradually peeled away, the reader is taken on an emotional rollercoaster, experiencing her pain, growth, and eventual self-discovery alongside her.
Honeyman's characterization is masterful; Eleanor is a complex, multi-dimensional protagonist who elicits both sympathy and admiration. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, adding depth and authenticity to the story. The relationships that unfold, particularly Eleanor's unlikely friendship with Raymond, are portrayed with sensitivity and grace, highlighting the transformative power of genuine human connection.
Moreover, Honeyman tackles sensitive topics such as mental health, trauma, and the importance of empathy with a delicate touch. She navigates these themes with respect and compassion, offering a realistic portrayal of the challenges many individuals face while emphasizing the importance of kindness and understanding.
In conclusion, "Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine" is a triumph of storytelling. Gail Honeyman has created a masterpiece that resonates long after the final chapter. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, reminding us all that even in the face of unimaginable pain, healing, love, and redemption are possible. This novel is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeply emotional and uplifting journey through the complexities of the human experience.
lemonjade's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
lefeemma's review against another edition
4.0
This was a loooong book. I thought it would go faster. She’s kinda a bitch at first but there were many things at first i related with her on. Like being single and stuff. I wish there was more romance. It had great character development.
mariahhanley's review against another edition
2.0
For the first 250 pages or so, Eleanor drove me up the wall. Finally, though, I realized I’d begun to really like her. Her little quirks became endearing instead of annoying, and I loved seeing her figure it all out.
meganomorrison's review against another edition
dark
funny
hopeful
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0