39 pages • 1 hour read
John IrvingThe Cider House Rules
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1985A 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
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.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
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.
Who Should Read The Cider House Rules?
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.