Why Sally Rooney's Normal People is more than just a love story

Sally Rooney is one of the best-loved writers of her generation and her second novel, Normal People, has been overwhelmingly popular across the world – first in book form and then its TV adaptation. Nominated for the Booker Prize 2018, Normal People follows Marianne and Connell as they come of age and figure out their place in the world. It's a love story that has touched readers everywhere but it's also a novel that has something to say about class and politics, in particular. So tune in to this episode to hear Jo and James discuss our February Monthly Spotlight pick.

In this episode Jo and James:

• Consider how the book became so popular
• Whether the haters have a leg to stand on
• Share a brief biography of Sally Rooney
• Summarise the plot of Normal People
• Discuss the themes explored in the novel

Reading list:

• Normal People by Sally Rooney
• Conversations With Friends by Sally Rooney
• Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney

A full transcript of the episode is available at our website.

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