3.73
"On Beauty" by Zadie Smith is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of beauty, culture, and family dynamics. The story revolves around the lives of the Belsey and Kipps families, who are intertwined through academia and personal relationships. The novel delves into the complexities of beauty, both physical and intellectual, and how it shapes the characters' perceptions of themselves and others. Smith masterfully weaves together issues of race, class, and identity, challenging the reader to question their own biases and assumptions. At its core, "On Beauty" is a family drama, as the Belseys and Kippses navigate their relationships with each other and the world around them. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with flaws and vulnerabilities that make them feel real. Smith's writing is sharp and witty, with a keen eye for detail that brings the story to life. One of the novel's strengths is its ability to tackle serious themes while still maintaining a sense of humor. Smith's writing is both insightful and entertaining, making "On Beauty" a pleasure to read. Overall, "On Beauty" is a rich and rewarding novel that offers a nuanced exploration of beauty, culture, and family. It is a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary literature and the complexities of the human experience...
Donna Tartt
The Secret History
If you enjoyed the complex characters and exploration of morality in 'On Beauty', you'll love 'The Secret History'. This novel follows a group of eccentric, privileged college students as they explore the darker side of classical education and the consequences of their actions.
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The Human Stain
Like 'On Beauty', 'The Human Stain' delves into themes of race, class, and identity. This novel tells the story of a classics professor who passes as white, and the scandal that erupts when his secret is revealed.
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Atonement
Fans of 'On Beauty' will appreciate the beautiful prose and exploration of class and morality in 'Atonement'. This novel tells the story of a young girl's false accusation and the impact it has on the lives of those around her.
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White Teeth
If you enjoyed the diverse cast of characters and exploration of cultural identity in 'On Beauty', you'll love 'White Teeth', Zadie Smith's debut novel that follows the lives of two friends and their families in post-war London.
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The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao
Like 'On Beauty', 'The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao' explores themes of identity, culture, and the immigrant experience. This novel tells the story of a Dominican-American nerd and the curse that has plagued his family for generations.
Learn MoreJeffrey Eugenides
Middlesex
Fans of 'On Beauty' will appreciate the exploration of identity and the impact of family history in 'Middlesex'. This novel tells the story of a hermaphrodite and the genetic mystery that has affected her family for generations.
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The Namesake
If you enjoyed the exploration of cultural identity and family dynamics in 'On Beauty', you'll love 'The Namesake'. This novel tells the story of a Indian-American family and the impact of cultural expectations on their lives.
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The Poisonwood Bible
Like 'On Beauty', 'The Poisonwood Bible' explores themes of culture, identity, and the impact of colonialism. This novel tells the story of a evangelical Baptist minister and his family who move to the Belgian Congo in 1959.
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Crossing to Safety
Fans of 'On Beauty' will appreciate the exploration of friendship and the passage of time in 'Crossing to Safety'. This novel tells the story of two couples and their lifelong friendship.
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The Kite Runner
Like 'On Beauty', 'The Kite Runner' explores themes of culture, identity, and the impact of political events on personal lives. This novel tells the story of an Afghan man who must confront his past and the consequences of his actions.
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