BOOK BRIEF

In One Person

John Irving
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In One Person

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012

Book Brief

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John Irving

In One Person

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012
Book Details
Pages

425

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Vermont • 1950s-1980s

Topic
Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In One Person by John Irving follows the life of a bisexual man named Billy. The narrative spans several decades, exploring Billy's personal growth, sexual identity, and the relationships he forms along the way. The story delves into themes of acceptance, tolerance, and the impact of societal attitudes on individual lives.

Reviews & Readership

3.9

29,335 ratings

63%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

John Irving's In One Person is praised for its rich character development and thoughtful exploration of gender identity and sexuality. However, some critics find the pacing uneven, with certain plotlines feeling underdeveloped. Overall, it’s a poignant and thought-provoking read that tackles complex social issues with empathy and nuance.

Who should read this

Who Should Read In One Person?

Readers who appreciate complex character studies and themes of sexual identity exploration, as in Jeffrey Eugenides's Middlesex or Michael Chabon's The Mysteries of Pittsburgh, will enjoy John Irving's In One Person. The novel’s nuanced portrayal of personal growth appeals to those who value rich, introspective narratives.

3.9

29,335 ratings

63%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

In One Person by John Irving was published in 2012 and won the Lambda Literary Award for Bisexual Fiction in 2013.

The novel touches upon themes of sexual identity and LGBTQ+ issues, showcasing Irving's long-standing interest in these subjects throughout his writing career.

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John Irving often incorporates elements of his personal experiences into his novels, and In One Person reflects his commitment to exploring diverse and complex characters.

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Book Details
Pages

425

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Vermont • 1950s-1980s

Topic
Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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