Is it unfair to say that Marianne wasn't annoying enough?
As someone who was chronically unlikable throughout their youth, I know what it takes to be a dynamic yet polarizing figure in a small town. (Not to sound self-aggrandizing or anything). Though Marrianne could, at times, be irritating, she was charming and ultimately correct about most of the high school battles she was taunted for. It was also notable that author Sally Rooney never allowed Marrianne a moment of true ugliness. Her flaws were her noticeably protruding collarbones, flat chest, and slightly crooked teeth. Everyone remembers how the slender, long brown-haired girl got teased relentlessly in high school, right?
Despite the rocky foundation, the book became deeply enthralling in Marianne and on again off again partner/soulmate Connell's post high school existences. Connell presents as multi-faceted and self-aware to a fault while Marianne is an outsider who bears the weight of seeing the world how it is. Despite a few irritating tropes (rich, unpopular girl, poor popular boy), the book ultimately wins with a sense of heart and the urgency it gives to the character's feelings.
As we progress into the young adulthood of Marianne and Connell, the writing and complexity of emotions deepen. Marianne is revealed as a flawed yet caring individual and Connell discovers that the world outside of his hometown of Carricklea isn't quite as warm and welcoming. The two struggle with their sense of selves and find themselves gravitating continually toward one another.
While romance novels are not my cup of tea, normal people is the best of the genre. It is sensitive, emotional, and dares to sink into less desirable emotions. No matter your preconceived expectations of the piece of work or the genre as a whole, this will make you cry.
3.75/5
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