Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close tells the story of Oskar Schell, a precocious and emotionally complex young boy who is trying to make sense of the world after his father, Thomas, dies in the September 11th attacks. The novel follows Oskar's search for answers as he embarks on a journey through New York City in search of a lock that might match a mysterious key his father left behind. Along the way, he meets a range of colorful characters, each dealing with their own losses and struggles, while Oskar himself grapples with grief, loneliness, and the trauma of the tragedy.

The book is notable for its unconventional narrative structure. The story is told from multiple perspectives, including Oskar's, his mother's, and even a collection of letters and photographs, which allows readers to explore the depth of loss from various angles. The novel also touches on the themes of healing, the impact of 9/11, and the relationship between memory and the passage of time.

Why Read This Book:

• A Deep Exploration of Grief: The novel provides an intimate portrayal of how a child processes trauma and loss, making it a powerful and emotional read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of grief.
• Unique Narrative Structure: The book's multi-layered narrative style, including interspersed photographs, letters, and fragmented memories, creates a distinctive reading experience that draws readers into Oskar's world.
• Universal Themes: Though centered around the events of 9/11, the story explores universal themes of love, loss, and human connection, making it relatable to a wide audience.
• Compelling Characters: The characters, especially Oskar, are richly drawn, with their own idiosyncrasies and emotional depths, making for an engaging and thought-provoking journey.
• Literary Merit: Foer’s prose is inventive and poetic, offering a deep emotional resonance and a literary experience that combines humor and heartbreak.

About the Author

Jonathan Safran Foer is an American novelist and writer, best known for his works that explore the human experience with a focus on trauma, memory, and relationships. His debut novel, Everything Is Illuminated, was published in 2002 and won widespread acclaim for its imaginative structure and exploration of history and personal identity. Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, his second novel, further solidified his reputation as one of the most innovative voices in contemporary fiction. Foer’s works are characterized by their unique narrative techniques and their examination of both individual and collective histories. He has also written nonfiction, including Eating Animals, a reflection on factory farming and vegetarianism, and has been involved in various social and environmental causes.