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Normal People Sally Rooney 268 pages | Published by Hogarth
Connell is popular and well-liked and knows that any relationship with Marianne - basically the class loner - would be a horrible thing for his social standing. Social standing aside, the two can't deny the bond that they have which turns in to a secret relationship. But when the two end up at college together the tables have turned - it is Marianne that is popular while Connell finds it difficult to find his place outside of their small town. Over the next few years, they each go through various other relationships but continue to find their way back to each other.
Oof this book is sad sad sad. It radiates sadness. It is depressing and lonely and absolutely beautiful. My heart hurt for Connell and Marianne nearly the entire book. It was so sad and frustrating to watch them both struggle to communicate.
I think this is a love it or hate it book, and while I do prefer a more concrete ending (be it happy or sad) I really really liked this one. Big Sad Energy is my jam.
My biggest problem was the lack of quotation marks. It just made the dialogue difficult to follow at times. That's just me though.
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