Introduction
When a debut novel wins the Costa First Novel Award and
becomes a Sunday times Bestseller, expectations are comparatively high. GailHoneyman’s Eleanor Oliphant Completely Fine not only meets the readers
expectations but also surprises us with its unique blend of heartbreak, hope
and humour.
The Story
Eleanor Oliphant is a 29-year-old woman who leads an organized
and solitary life. She wears the same clothes to work, eats the same meals, and
avoids unnecessary human contacts. To the outside world she seems to be fine
but she felt lonely and depressed inside with scars of traumatic childhood.
Her life begins changes when she unexpectedly meets Raymond,
a kind IT guy from her office. They help an elderly man who faints on the
street and this small act of kindness becomes a catalyst for Eleanor’s journey
of healing, self-discovery and connection.
What Works
- A
unique protagonist: Eleanor is a unique character with quite odd
habits, awkward social life, and straight forward unlike in condemnatory
novels.
- Blending
humor and pain: The novel humorous moments with heart wrenching
revelations about trauma, survival and loneliness.
- Emotional
depth: As Eleanor’s past unfolds, readers are drawn in to deep
exploration of abuse, resilience, and need for human companionship.
- Hopeful
message: Despite of its negative themes, this book celebrates healing,
kindness and possibility to change at any stage in life.
Where It Falls Short
- Slow
pacing at the start: Some readers say that Eleanor’s rigid routines
are described in repetitively in first few chapters.
- Predictability
of the twist: The revelation about past is predictable to seasoned
readers
- Heavy
themes: For sensitive readers, the depictions of trauma and emotional
neglect can be triggering.
📌 Quick Summary
✅ Pros
- Unique
and unforgettable memories
- Mix
of humor and emotional twist
- Explores
loneliness, trauma, and healing with sensitivity in the life
- Uplifting
and hopeful ending in the climax
- Easy-to-read
yet thought-provoking
❌ Cons
- Slow
pacing in the beginning of the story
- The
big twist feels predictable for some readers
- Heavy
themes may be triggering for sensitive readers
Conclusion
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fineis not just a good
novel. It is sensitive, sharply written
exploring, healing wrapped in wit and warmth. Honeyman has created a character
who his unforgettable, flawed yet endearing, broken yet brave.
This is a story that reminds us that kindness, both from
others and toward ourselves, can be life-changing. It’s a book that lingers
with you long after you turn the final page.
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5 – A
touching, funny, and inspiring debut that deserves its acclaim.
👉 Perfect for readers who
enjoy character-driven fiction, emotional depth, and stories of resilience.
