First published in 1999, This Is Our Youth by Kenneth Lonergan is a dark comedy set in 1982, focusing on three troubled young adults—Dennis, Warren, and Jessica. When Warren steals $15,000 from his father, Dennis spends some on drugs, and Warren uses it to impress Jessica, taking her to an expensive hotel. The play explores themes of materialism, maturity, and adolescence. The play features discussions of familial abuse and substance use.

Kenneth Lonergan's This Is Our Youth receives acclaim for its raw and honest portrayal of disillusioned youth in the 1980s. Reviewers appreciate the sharp dialogue and complex characters. Some critique its limited plot progression, but most agree it compellingly captures the angst and aimlessness of its era, making it an engaging study of youthful rebellion and vulnerability.

A reader who would enjoy This Is Our Youth by Kenneth Lonergan is likely interested in coming-of-age stories that explore themes of youth, identity, and rebellion in urban settings. Comparable works include J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye and Bret Easton Ellis's Less Than Zero.

Melancholic / Contemplative / Gritty / Nostalgic / Emotional

- This Is Our Youth premiered in 1996 and has since become a staple of American theater, known for its raw and authentic portrayal of young adulthood in the 1980s.
- The play had its notable Broadway debut in 2014 at the Cort Theatre, starring Michael Cera, Kieran Culkin, and Tavi Gevinson, which helped draw attention from a broader, mainstream audience.
- Kenneth Lonergan is celebrated for his ability to write dialogue that captures the nuances of everyday speech, with This Is Our Youth exemplifying his skill in crafting relatable and compelling conversations among characters.

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