The 6 Best John Irving Books
Complete reviews of the best six books by renowned author John Irving. Get insights on each novel and what makes these stories so compelling.
John Irving Novels
John Irving is a beloved author whose work spans multiple literary genres and eras. From the iconic classic, The World According to Garp, to contemporary works like In One Person and Avenue of Mysteries, Irving has delighted readers with his unique blend of surrealism, humor and seriousness. Irving's novels use of symbolism contributes to his deep exploration of complex human experiences ranging from the humorous to the heartbreaking. It comes as no surprise that Irving's prolific body of work has earned him prizewinning recognition around the world, including a National Book Award, and an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay in 2000 for The World According to Garp. He also got a nod when Peter Parnell won an Academy Award for his adaptation of The Cider House Rules. With his clever wit and sensational stories, John Irving's books continue to amuse audiences spanning generations.
A Prayer for Owen Meany
John Irving’s 1989 novel, A Prayer for Owen Meany, is an unforgettable read and an international success for a reason. This Pulitzer Prize-nominated novel follows the story of two boys in a small New Hampshire town as they come of age and grapple with life’s big questions. It’s a story full of love, loss, faith, and friendship that will surely have you turning pages until the very end.
The Characters
At the heart of this novel are two characters—John Wheelwright and Owen Meany. John is a quiet but observant boy who moves to New Hampshire with his mother after her divorce from his abusive father. Owen, on the other hand, is a diminutive yet determined figure who believes he was put on Earth to fulfill a special purpose. These two boys become best friends and embark on a journey together filled with laughter, tears, and adventure.
Our Thoughts
In conclusion, A Prayer for Owen Meany is an excellent read that will keep you hooked until the very last page. While it can be dark at times, it doesn’t forget its sense of humor or its heartwarming moments either—making it a truly unique experience that any reader would be lucky to have encountered. If you haven't had the chance to read this classic yet, then do yourself a favor – pick up your copy today!
The Cider House Rules
When it comes to the works of John Winslow Irving, one cannot help but be impressed. His novels are always full of characters that feel so real you’d think he knows them in person. The same can be said for his 1985 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel "The Cider House Rules", which is a coming-of age story about an orphan named Homer Wells. With themes like morality and identity at play, this book is sure to get readers thinking. Let’s dive in and take a look at what makes The Cider House Rules a modern classic.
The Story
The Cider House Rules tells the story of Homer Wells, an orphan who was never adopted and decides to stay on as an apprentice at the cider house where he grew up. He soon learns about all the different sides of life through his interactions with Dr. Larch, who runs the cider house; Candy Kendall, a pregnant girl looking for an abortion; and Wally Worthington, a wealthy young man dealing with family issues of his own. As the story progresses, Homer is forced to make difficult decisions that will shape his future while also learning important lessons about morality and responsibility.
Our Thoughts
The Cider House Rules is an engaging novel that tackles important topics like morality and identity with grace and wit. It’s easy to see why this book won John Irving so many accolades when it was first released back in 1985 - even today it stands out as one of his best works yet! If you’re looking for a thought-provoking read full of interesting characters, then The Cider House Rules should definitely be on your list!
The World According to Garp
John Irving’s 1978 novel, The World According to Garp, is a rollercoaster ride of laughter and tears that will leave you feeling inspired. Filled with laugh-out-loud moments and an unforgettable cast of characters, this book is a perfect example of why Irving is one of the most beloved authors of all time.
The Story
The story follows Garp, the son of a single mom who wrote her autobiography (called A Sexual Suspect) from his early childhood in New England through adulthood. Along the way, he meets an eclectic group of people who help shape his life. Garp's escapades are peppered with hilarity as he grapples with relationships, family issues, and a series of bizarre mishaps—from being chased by an angry mob for writing about their town to getting ejected from a wrestling match for refusing to use violence. Throughout it all, Garp remains resilient and determined to live by his own set of rules.
Our Thoughts
Overall, The World According to Garp is an entertaining read that will leave you with plenty of food for thought. Whether you're looking for some lighthearted laughs or thoughtful reflections on life's struggles—this book has something for everyone! So if you're in need of some literary inspiration or just want a good chuckle—give this classic work by John Irving a try! You won't be disappointed!
Avenue of Mysteries
American writer John Irving has long been one of my favorite authors, and his latest book, Avenue of Mysteries, does not disappoint. In this novel, Irving brings together themes of memory and identity in a way that only he can. The result is an engrossing read that will keep you captivated from start to finish.
The Story
The novel follows two storylines intertwined in time and space. One story centers on Juan Diego Guerrero—a fourteen-year-old boy living in Mexico who has the ability to see into the future—as he embarks on a journey with his older sister Lupe to the Philippines. The second story takes place years later and focuses on the now older Juan Diego, who is reflecting back on his childhood adventures as he prepares to give a lecture at an American university.
Our Thoughts
John Irving's Avenue of Mysteries is an engrossing journey through time and memory that will stay with you long after you've finished reading it—a true feat for any work of literature! If you're looking for an entertaining read full of depth and heart, then this book should definitely be added to your must-read list. You won't regret it!
The Last Chairlift
While it may not be John Irving’s most famous book, The Last Chairlift certainly deserves its place in the literary canon. This twisted tale follows the story of a small New Hampshire town as it struggles to keep its beloved ski resort afloat in the face of financial ruin. It is equal parts heartwarming and heartbreaking, and it will leave you wondering what’s real and what’s fiction.
The Story
At the center of this novel is a family—the Campbells—who have been running the ski resort for generations. We follow their struggles as they fight to keep their business alive despite dwindling numbers of skiers and snowboarders, all while dealing with personal issues like divorce and substance abuse. As things get more desperate, we realize that this isn’t just about saving a ski resort—it’s about saving a way of life.
Our Thoughts
The Last Chairlift is an incredible work of fiction from master storyteller John Irving that will leave readers wanting more. From its captivating characters to its beautiful setting, this novel has something for everyone—including those who may not even be familiar with skiing or snowboarding! Whether you’re looking for an entertaining read or simply want to escape reality for a while, The Last Chairlift won't disappoint!
The Hotel New Hampshire
The Hotel New Hampshire is a true classic, and one of John Irving's best novels. It tells the story of an oddly endearing family, their quirky adventures, and their misadventures in a hotel aptly named The Hotel New Hampshire. I'm sure you're wondering what this book has to offer, so let's dive into my review!
The Story
The Hotel New Hampshire is full of unexpected twists and turns that will make you laugh out loud one moment and cry your eyes out the next. This beautifully written book captures both the lighthearted moments as well as touching stories about love, loss, family, friendship, and more. It's a rollercoaster ride that will have you feeling all kinds of emotions by the time you reach the end!
Our Thoughts
Overall, I highly recommend The Hotel New Hampshire by John Irving if you're looking for an entertaining read with plenty of emotion packed into every page. Whether it’s laughter or tears that breaks through first depends on how much of your heart you give away while reading this stunning novel—and trust me when I say it’ll be worth it! So grab your copy today if you haven't already because it's one story nobody should miss out on!
John Irving Books List
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