The Cider House Rules by John Irving is widely praised for its rich storytelling and complex characters. Reviewers commend the intricate narrative and thought-provoking themes on moral dilemmas. However, some criticize its length and occasional slow pacing. Overall, it’s seen as a compelling and emotionally resonant work, albeit challenging for some due to its depth.

A reader who enjoys The Cider House Rules by John Irving will likely appreciate complex characters, intricate plots, and themes of morality and personal choice. Fans of works like Charles Dickens's David Copperfield and Jeffrey Eugenides's Middlesex may find this novel engrossing due to its rich narrative and emotional depth.

The Cider House Rules by John Irving follows Homer Wells, an orphan in rural Maine who grows up under the mentorship of Dr. Wilbur Larch, the director of an orphanage and secret abortionist. As Homer matures, he grapples with his beliefs about abortion and his place in the world, eventually leaving the orphanage to join a wealthy apple orchard family, only to confront complex relationships and moral dilemmas. The novel addresses sensitive topics such as orphanhood, abortion, sexual abuse, and addiction.

Emotional / Bittersweet / Contemplative / Melancholic / Mysterious

John Irving

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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The Cider House Rules Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Cider House Rules Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

The Cider House Rules Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-7

The Cider House Rules Chapters 4-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-11

The Cider House Rules Chapters 8-11 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Cider House Rules Character Analysis

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Themes

The Cider House Rules Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Cider House Rules Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Cider House Rules Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Cider House Rules Essay Topics

The Cider House Rules

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