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Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine: Summary

Everything you need to know about Gail Honeyman's Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine, in 1 paragraph.
An illustration of a reader enjoying Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman in a cosy interior
A reader enjoying Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
Eleanor Oliphant is a quirky, socially awkward woman who lives an isolated life in Glasgow, Scotland. She avoids contact with other people and follows a strict weekly routine. When she meets Raymond, the IT guy from her office, she begins to break away from her old habits and routines. With his help, she discovers that her reclusive life has been hiding a dark family secret involving her mother. She slowly rebuilds her life as she works to find closure and heal from her traumatic past.

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What is Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine about?

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine is a humorous and heartwarming story about learning to accept yourself and connect with others. At the heart of the story is the theme of loneliness: Eleanor is isolated from the world, living a life of strict routine until she meets Raymond and learns to open up to the possibilities that life can offer. Other themes explored in the book include self-acceptance, resilience, friendship, and kindness. It also touches on themes of mental health and trauma, as Eleanor struggles to come to terms with her past.

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine: Book Club Questions

  1. What do you think of Eleanor's unique personality, and how did it affect the plot?
  2. What did you think of the way Eleanor perceives her life and the world around her?
  3. How did Eleanor’s relationships with Raymond and Mummy shape her character development?
  4. What was your reaction to the climax of the novel?
  5. Did you sympathize with Eleanor throughout the story?
  6. How did the themes of loneliness and isolation play out in the novel?
  7. Do you think Eleanor's journey towards self-acceptance was realistic and believable?
  8. What do you think were some of the most important lessons Eleanor learned from her experiences?
  9. How do you feel about the ending of the novel? Was it satisfying or unsatisfying for you?
  10. What do you think is the overall message about mental health that this book conveys?

What to say about Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine

  • Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine is an incredibly thought-provoking read that raises important questions about loneliness and human connection.
  • The character of Eleanor is so complex and multilayered, making her a memorable protagonist to follow throughout the story.
  • I love how the novel explores the power of friendship in overcoming hardships and finding joy in life.
  • Gail Honeyman's writing style is masterful, effortlessly drawing readers into Eleanor's world and making them feel connected to her journey.
  • Despite its poignant subject matter, there are several moments of lightheartedness throughout the novel that add a unique touch of humor to the narrative.
  • I really appreciate how the author emphasizes the importance of self-love and self-care in healing from trauma and living a fulfilling life.
  • The book does a great job of portraying mental health issues in a realistic yet sensitive way, emphasizing both their complexity and potential for resolution.
  • It's remarkable how Honeyman develops themes of resilience and hope in such a powerful yet subtle fashion throughout the novel.
  • Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine stands out as an inspiring tale of personal growth and transformation that will stay with readers long after they finish it.
  • This is an unforgettable story that encourages readers to value themselves and reach out to others, even when times are challenging

Top 5 Quotes from Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine

  1. "It's much easier to be alone. That way nobody can hurt you."
  2. "I just want to be OK, like everyone else."
  3. "Maybe I was a little odd, but I was happy enough."
  4. "We all have our secrets, don't we?"
  5. "Life is a gift, not an obligation."

Adaptations of Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine

At this time, there are no known official adaptations of Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine. However, the book has been optioned for a feature film adaptation, with Reese Witherspoon set to star and produce. Additionally, an audio adaptation of the novel will be released in 2021.

Other books by Gail Honeyman

  • Where the Animals Go: Tracking Wildlife with Technology in 50 Maps and Graphics
  • The Starless Sea
  • The Dutch House

Did you know?

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Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine was the debut novel by Scottish author Gail Honeyman, and it went on to become an international bestseller.