The plot is always an important part of a story and often keeps the reader’s interest. Once I was used to reading the dialogue it became natural and flowed more like a script.Īnother heads up, (or for some, a critique) with this book is the fact that there’s minimal plot. It is a more unique artistic choice in literature that does not come up too often. Rooney chooses to exclude quotation marks in her writing. Going in to read “Normal People,” here’s some insight about the writing style. And even further, how two people can grow distant and yet whether it be fate or a higher power, the universe keeps bringing them back together. Rooney takes “Normal People” and uses it as a mirror to reflect on the 21st century dating scene, specifically the newer idea of a “situationship.” How in some cases two people can have an undeniable connection and still not be romantically involved. Having Connell and Marianne go through challenging times and cope with many struggles continues the realism in this novel. Including these topics in the book helps spread awareness and start discussion. “Normal People” also features heavier topics such as sexual violence, abuse and struggles with mental health. The two of them claim it never impacted their relationship, but both grew self-conscious and hyper-aware of their financial situations. Connell’s mother, Lorraine, cleans Marianne’s house.

On top of the foundations of their relationship being tainted from the beginning, they come from different economic backgrounds. Many people believe that Marianne is stuck up and unapproachable in high school, so she secludes herself and lets people believe narratives about her. Connell’s friends’ opinions change the way he approaches Marianne early on in their relationship. It is a character-driven story, exploring them as people, looking into their wants, needs and fears.īoth Connell and Marianne have a tendency to let others control their lives.

Readers gain insight into the minds of Marianne and Connell, exposing the entirety of their relationship. Set in Ireland in the early 2010s, “Normal People” is written in the third person omniscient. Throughout the years of university, they cross paths and always seem to find their way back to each other. After a handful events, they end up attending the same college. So when the two start seeing each other, Connell is determined to keep it a secret. In high school, Connell is a jock that hangs with the popular crowd, while Marianne keeps to herself. With the book and series alike, “Normal People” has reached many hearts with its complicated, yet simple story.Ĭonnell Waldron and Marianne Sheridan have a connection they can’t quite explain. The book gained widespread success and a Hulu original series, starring Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal. Sally Rooney debuted on the writing scene in 2017 and published “Normal People” the following year.

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