58 pages 1 hour read

Peter Hedges

What's Eating Gilbert Grape

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1991

A 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

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Peter Hedges' What's Eating Gilbert Grape is widely praised for its heartfelt portrayal of small-town life and complex family dynamics. Reviewers commend its authentic characters and emotional depth. However, some critics find the pacing sluggish and feel the narrative could be more focused. Overall, it's a touching exploration of personal struggle and community.

Who should read this

Who Should Read What's Eating Gilbert Grape?

Fans of character-driven stories grappling with familial duty and personal aspirations would enjoy What's Eating Gilbert Grape by Peter Hedges. Similar to readers of The Perks of Being a Wallflower and The Secret Life of Bees, these readers appreciate emotionally resonant, small-town narratives focused on personal growth.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre
Coming of Age / Bildungsroman
Drama / Tragedy
Modern Classic Fiction
Themes
Relationships: Family
Emotions/Behavior: Grief
Identity: Disability