Normal People - Active Reading Discussion

[John]

What’s resonating with you as you read Normal People?

Are you drawn more to the shifting dynamic between Connell and Marianne, the way school and social status shape their choices, or the quiet moments of connection (and disconnection) between them?

Use this thread to share your reflections as you go—just remember to tag spoilers so others can experience the story unfold in real time.

[John]

This is an interesting book. Not my typical choice (which is kinda the point for me with a club--to stretch what I read). I generally like mysteries or Scifi--something with a problem to overcome or a conundrum to weave through. This book (and many fiction works) is more of a rambling story. Not bad...just different for me.

[Julie]

I am about a third of the way through this audio book. I’m not overly impressed with it but I don’t hate it. It makes me wonder what is the actual point of this story though.

[John]

Julie wrote: "I am about a third of the way through this audio book. I’m not overly impressed with it but I don’t hate it. It makes me wonder what is the actual point of this story though."

That's kinda where I was. Not bad per se, but not sure the point.

[Amy]

Disclaimer: Hey is there a reading schedule? The navigation isn’t always so intuitive on the iOS app, so u don’t want it have missed something or posting in the wrong place. Spoilers are a major pet peeve of mine, so that’s where I’m coming from.

I’m 11% into the audiobook. I had to put it on hold for a day or so and read/listen to something else, as I felt myself tuning out.
So I resumed it last night and I’m liking it better, but I’m getting confused.
Do I have this right- they are still in high school, but conducting a fundraiser at a bar? And the (presumed) minors cannot only buy, but consume and sell alcohol to other patrons of this bar?

I think it’s easier to fully comprehend the work if i know where we are in the plot. They were just talking about what they would major in at college, so I thought they were still in high school?
I realize that other countries have different names for high school and college, and there are different cultural norms as far as alcohol consumption.
I’m still reading and plan to keep reading this, fyi.

[John]

Amy wrote: "Disclaimer: Hey is there a reading schedule? The navigation isn’t always so intuitive on the iOS app, so u don’t want it have missed something or posting in the wrong place. Spoilers are a major pe..."

Hi Amy! We don't have a set reading schedule other than the month (and even that--people sometimes finish after). Agree with you on spoilers, there is a spoiler function that can be used for major plot points and people generally either use it - or just stay away from major points.