Sweet Sorrow: A Novel Paperback – August 4, 2020

Another gem by David Nicholls. Normally I am not a fan of “coming of age” books but the dialogue and plot in this book were just too entertaining.

A sweet and light read, capturing what it's like to be a 16-year-old boy falling in love for the first time. I loved all the references to music, books and shows from the time when I was sixteen, making it even more relevant to me as a reader.The main characters are well developed, and it's an uplifting read for the summer.

As a fan of David Nicholls' books, this one was a disappointment. Although well written, I found the story-line boring and dragged out. I really only enjoyed the last 10% of the book.

Anyone who enjoys Nicholls’ work will appreciate this. If you grew up in the 90s, it will be especially meaningful.

Nichol’s enjoyable story charmingly captures the exhilaration and awkwardness of first love. Charlie, a directionless teen avoiding his dysfunctional home life, is smitten after a brief encounter with Fran Fisher who radiates confidence and humor and more importantly, seems to return his interest. Shakespeare is the muse here providing the vehicle and framework for their budding relationship and like the Capulets you might imagine Fran’s parents wondering why their bright and vivacious daughter has taken up with the morose and unambitious Charlie. But, as in Romeo and Juliet, such are the ways of the heart.

I enjoyed this book as much as any John Green book. I read it last month and two books ago; yet I keep thinking about it. Awkward teenager Charlie Lewis hates his home life where he lives with his alcoholic, depressed, newly divorced father. Charlie stumbles upon a summer theater group preparing for Romeo and Juliet. The prettiest girl, who plays Juliet, invites Charlie to join the cast. This leads to first love, emotionally and physically for Charlie. Then 20 years later, the cast has a reunion party just before Charlie is to marry a different woman. I liked this book so much because it reminded me of when I worked with teenagers as we read, acted and discussed Romeo and Juliet in my classes. Author David Nicholls does an accurate job capturing those teen personalities and dramas.

I suppose that the ending is supposed to be a big surprise, but what made the book was the characters and how theywere impacted by and find meaning in Shakespeare and each other. Lovely story.

An adorable, light read with a satisfying denouement, capturing what it's like to be a 16 year old boy falling in love for the first time. The main characters are thoroughly developed, although minor ones remain a bit flat. Still it's a great uplifting read for getting through this tough time.

Prompt delivery. No issues.

I've enjoyed all his books- we're all familiar with character types or behaviours so the stories resonate. Now for the newest "you are here"

This is such a good novel. The language is so precise and descriptive. The characters are well drawn and believable. Added to that, the plot is engaging and funny. David Nicholls has such a talent for writing. This book should definitely have won the Booker prize.

Definitely worth reading. A good insight into relationships, adolescence, family life, functional and dysfunctional. Well written and hard to put down.

I loved this novel. Anyone who has enjoyed his other books will not be disappointed.