BOOK BRIEF

Them

Joyce Carol Oates
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Them

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2006

Book Brief

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Joyce Carol Oates

Them

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2006
Book Details
Pages

592

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Detroit, Michigan • 1960s

Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Research Them by Joyce Carol Oates follows the lives of three individuals struggling with poverty and trauma in mid-20th-century Detroit. The narrative delves into their complex family dynamics, aspirations, and the societal challenges they face, highlighting resilience and the pursuit of better lives amidst adversity. The characters' interconnected stories explore themes of survival and identity.

Dark

Gritty

Mysterious

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

3.9

3,876 ratings

61%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Them by Joyce Carol Oates is praised for its intense and vivid portrayal of urban life, capturing the struggles of the working class with raw authenticity. Critics commend Oates's rich character development and narrative depth. However, some mention its sprawling plot can feel overwhelming. Overall, it is an impactful exploration of societal and familial challenges.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Them?

Readers who relish gritty, realistic portrayals of American life akin to Beloved by Toni Morrison will gravitate to Joyce Carol Oates's Them. This novel suits those drawn to stories exploring complex family dynamics and societal struggles, much like the narratives in Richard Wright’s Native Son.

3.9

3,876 ratings

61%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

592

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Detroit, Michigan • 1960s

Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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