Book Review: Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
When I first stumbled upon Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine, it was amidst the buzz surrounding Reese Witherspoon’s book club picks. I was drawn to the intriguing title, which seemed to hint at a deeper complexity. Little did I know, this charming narrative would resonate with me on such a personal level.
Gail Honeyman’s debut novel introduces us to Eleanor Oliphant, an eccentric and socially awkward woman whose life is as meticulously structured as it is painfully lonely. With weekends filled with frozen pizza, vodka, and phone conversations with her mother, Eleanor’s existence appears “fine” on the surface—but we quickly learn there’s much more beneath. As I delved into her world, I found myself both chuckling and tearing up, often within the same paragraph.
The remarkable friendship that develops between Eleanor and Raymond, the bumbling IT guy, serves as the novel’s emotional backbone. Their serendipitous encounter while assisting an elderly man, Sammy, who has collapsed on the street, sparks a transformation in Eleanor. It’s a poignant reminder of how human connection can alter our lives, and I found myself rooting for Eleanor fiercely as she navigated her path from isolation to intimacy.
Honeyman’s writing style is refreshingly candid, often laced with a dry humor that beautifully juxtaposes the more serious themes of trauma and mental health. I appreciated how she explores the nuances of loneliness and how society often overlooks those who don’t quite fit in. One of my favorite quotes encapsulates this sentiment: “There are scars on my heart, just as thick, as disfiguring as those on my face.” This line resonated deeply with me, as it paints a vivid picture of Eleanor’s internal struggles.
While some readers found the pacing slow, I felt that the gradual unfolding of Eleanor’s story allowed for a richer understanding of her character. The first few chapters might be challenging, but I promise you, the payoff is worth it. By the end, Eleanor becomes a relatable figure, showcasing an evolution that is both realistic and hopeful.
I wholeheartedly recommend Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine to anyone who appreciates stories of resilience, introspection, and the healing power of friendship. This novel not only entertained me but also encouraged me to reflect on the value of human connections in our lives. After finishing the book, I felt a little lighter, as if I’d taken a small step toward understanding the complexities of empathy and connection, just like Eleanor.
In closing, if you’re looking for a quirky yet heartfelt story that beautifully captures the essence of being human, this is the book for you. Eleanor may be a bit unconventional, but her journey is one that highlights an essential truth: sometimes, we are not fine, and that’s okay.
You can find Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine: Reese’s Book Club: A Novel here >>