Hornby, Nick: *1957
About a Boy, 1998 - Information about the Book
- General Information | Facts | Author | Commentary | Reviews | Explanations
- General Information
- This is a coming-of-age, comedic novel. The story begins with 12-year-old Marcus Brewer moving to London in 1993 with his loving but suicidal mother. He must adjust to a new school with strict social norms for behavior and appearance.
- Information from Wikipedia.
- Hornby has openly discussed his own battles with depression, which is reflected in the character of Fiona, Marcus’s mother. This personal connection allows Hornby to depict Fiona’s challenges authentically, showing how her depression forces Marcus to mature prematurely and take on adult responsibilities at a young age.Developed by AI
- Facts
- The novel's title is inspired by the Nirvana song "About a Girl".
Some of the most notable awards are:E.M. Forster Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters - This award recognized the novel's outstanding contribution to American literature.
Whitbread Novel Award - Now known as the Costa Book Awards, this prestigious literary prize honored "About a Boy" as the best novel of the year.
Commonwealth Writers' Prize - The book won the Best Book Award for the Eurasia region, acknowledging its excellence in storytelling and literary merit.
The W.H. Smith Award - It was also a recipient of this award, which celebrates outstanding literature across various genres.
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- Coming of Age
The novel follows the coming-of-age journeys of its two protagonists - 12-year-old Marcus Brewer and 36-year-old Will Freeman. Marcus is forced to mature prematurely due to his depressed mother's inability to care for him properly. Meanwhile, the perpetually adolescent Will gradually learns to take responsibility and embrace adulthood through his friendship with Marcus.Parental Responsibility
A central theme is the contrasting levels of responsibility exhibited by the main characters towards parenting and childcare. Marcus essentially parents himself and his suicidal mother Fiona, while the childless Will initially avoids any parental duties. Their relationship helps Will develop a sense of responsibility.Loneliness and Human Connection
The novel explores loneliness, with both Marcus and Will feeling isolated - Marcus due to being bullied, and Will by choice as he avoids commitments. Their bond highlights the importance of human connection in overcoming loneliness and achieving personal growth.1990s Youth Culture
Set in 1993 London, the novel is steeped in 1990s youth culture references, particularly to grunge music like Nirvana which Marcus is introduced to by Will. This reflects the generational divide between the two protagonists.Overall, "About a Boy" deftly balances comedic elements with an insightful character study on responsibility, human relationships, and the transition from adolescence to adulthood.
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- "About a Boy" generally received positive reviews from critics and readers alike. Reviewers frequently highlight Hornby's humorous and witty writing style. The novel balances light-hearted moments with deeper, more emotional themes, making it accessible and enjoyable to a wide audience.
The characters, particularly Will Freeman and Marcus Brewer, are often noted for their depth and growth throughout the story. Will, a detached bachelor, and Marcus, a quirky and troubled young boy, form an unlikely friendship that transforms both of their lives. This character dynamic is central to the book's appeal.
Overall, "About a Boy" is regarded as a clever and touching novel that combines humor with a meaningful exploration of human relationships and personal growth.
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- Author
- Audio (27:38)
James Naughtie meets novelist Nick Hornby to discuss About A Boy.. "Hornby is a writer who dares to be witty, intelligent and emotionally generous all at once." BBC; December 2, 2001 - Audio (21:06)
Nick Hornby Talks "About A Boy". Fresh Air; May 20, 1998 - Podcast
James Naughtie and a studio audience meet novelist Nick Hornby to discuss "About a Boy"
- Commentary
- Nick Hornby's "About a Boy" is a witty and poignant exploration of human connection, loneliness, and personal growth. Set in London, the novel follows the lives of Will Freeman, a wealthy and self-centered bachelor, and Marcus Brewer, an awkward and socially isolated 12-year-old boy. Their unlikely friendship forms the heart of the story, illustrating how relationships can reshape lives. Will’s carefree, shallow existence contrasts sharply with Marcus’s challenging life, marked by bullying and his mother Fiona's depression. Their bond begins as a convenient arrangement, with Will pretending to be a single father to meet women, but evolves into a deeper relationship that helps both characters grow. Through Marcus, Will learns to care for others and confronts his own emotional emptiness. Meanwhile, Marcus gains confidence and navigates the complexities of adolescence with Will’s support. Hornby’s humor and sharp observations on modern relationships make the novel both entertaining and thought-provoking. It critiques societal norms of family and masculinity, while celebrating unconventional relationships. The dual narrative perspective—shifting between Will and Marcus—adds depth to their development and underscores the impact they have on each other’s lives. Ultimately, "About a Boy" is a touching and humorous reminder of the transformative power of friendship and the importance of finding connection in unexpected places.Developed by AI
- Reviews
- Explanations
- Kirkus Review. "Far more than just boys will be boys, this has the right mix of hilarity and irrepressible characters to attract a wide audience: an upbeat, unqualified success." May 11, 1998
- Too Cool for Words. "Hornby is a writer who dares to be witty, intelligent and emotionally generous all at once." Hal Espen, The New York Times; June 28, 1998
- Father of invention: "The psychology of Hornby's characters is carefully, thoughtfully, and gently done." The Guardian; March 29, 1998
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