Our rating: 4.3 / 5

How this book made us feel: 💔 😞 🥹

Themes: trauma, loneliness, belongingness, connection, friendship

Eleanor Oliphant, with her quirky ways and routine-driven life, might seem like an unlikely hero in a novel. But that's precisely what makes "Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman such a delightful and heartwarming read. Beneath Eleanor's socially awkward exterior lies a poignant exploration of mental health, the yearning for belongingness, and the healing power of connection.

Set in Glasgow, the story follows Eleanor Oliphant, a woman who leads a solitary and regimented existence. She's not your typical protagonist, and that's what makes her story so relatable. The novel delves into Eleanor's mental health struggles, capturing her battles with loneliness, trauma, and self-isolation. Honeyman's portrayal of Eleanor's emotional state is both empathetic and authentic, reminding us that even seemingly "completely fine" individuals can be harboring deep emotional scars.

Belongingness emerges as a central theme throughout the book. Eleanor's isolation and lack of social skills stem from her traumatic past, which the story gradually unveils. In Lecture, we witnessed her yearning for connection in simple acts, like observing people in a park or fantasizing about a handsome musician she's never met. Eleanor's journey toward finding a sense of belonging is not only a personal one but also a universal exploration of human nature.

“Sometimes you simply needed someone kind to sit with you while you dealt with things.”

GAIL HONEYMAN, Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine

The novel introduces us to an unexpected source of change: Raymond, Eleanor's quirky coworker. Their unlikely friendship serves as a catalyst for Eleanor's transformation. Raymond's acceptance and genuine care for Eleanor create a safe space for her to open up and confront her past. This relationship beautifully underscores the importance of compassion and understanding in fostering mental well-being.

Honeyman's writing style is effortlessly engaging, sprinkled with humor that adds a light touch to the heavy themes. Eleanor's internal monologue provides insight into her mind, offering readers a chance to understand her perspective. The narrative structure keeps us hooked, as we piece together the puzzle of Eleanor's past alongside her.

"Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine" is a tender reminder that everyone is battling something beneath the surface. It shows us that mental health struggles aren't a sign of weakness but a part of the human experience. The novel challenges us to look beyond the surface, extending kindness and understanding to those who may appear distant or odd.

In a world that sometimes feels disconnected, Eleanor Oliphant's journey offers hope. It illustrates the transformative power of human connection and the healing that can arise from genuine relationships. As we cheer for Eleanor's growth and her pursuit of a place where she truly belongs, we are reminded that, just like her, we all deserve to find our own versions of "completely fine."