44 pages • 1 hour read
Emma DonoghueThe Wonder
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Set in mid-19th century Ireland, The Wonder follows English nurse Lib Wright as she watches over Anna O’Donnell, a young girl who claims not to have eaten for four months, to determine the truth behind her fasting. Through her investigation, Lib uncovers hidden traumas and challenges the beliefs of the local community, intertwining themes of faith, skepticism, and redemption. The novel depicts eating disorders, sexual assault, and the loss of a child.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Emma Donoghue’s The Wonder captivates with its atmospheric setting and compelling plot, praised for its rich historical detail and psychological depth. Critics appreciate the strong character portrayals, especially of the protagonist. However, some find the pacing slow and the resolution less satisfying. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read that effectively blends mystery with social commentary.
Who Should Read The Wonder?
Readers who enjoy The Wonder by Emma Donoghue are often captivated by historical fiction with deep psychological insights. Fans of Room by the same author or The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton will appreciate its richly detailed setting and complex character studies set against a backdrop of mystery and spiritual dilemma.