BUtterfield 8
228
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1930s
2003
Adult
18+ years
BUtterfield 8 by John O'Hara explores the life of Gloria Wandrous, a young person navigating the complexities of identity and relationships in 1930s New York City. The narrative delves into themes of social class, morality, and personal transformation, offering a window into the character's experiences and challenges in a rapidly changing urban landscape.
Dark
Gritty
Mysterious
Melancholic
Emotional
3,004 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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BUtterfield 8 by John O'Hara is often praised for its sharp social commentary and vivid depiction of 1930s New York, capturing the complexities of the era's moral landscape. The protagonist's internal struggles are compelling, though some critics find the plot uneven at times. Overall, O'Hara's narrative skill and character depth are highly regarded.
Readers who enjoy BUtterfield 8 by John O'Hara appreciate complex character studies and lush depictions of 1930s NYC. Fans of F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby or Edith Wharton's The Age of Innocence will find similar themes of societal norms and personal struggle compelling.
3,004 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The title "BUtterfield 8" refers to a telephone exchange in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, a detail that highlights the book's setting in 1930s New York City.
"BUtterfield 8" was inspired by the real-life story of a socialite named Starr Faithfull, whose mysterious death in 1931 intrigued and scandalized New York society.
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The novel's author, John O'Hara, was known for his incisive social commentary and was considered a master of dialogue, with "BUtterfield 8" showcasing his keen ability to capture the complexities of human relationships and urban life.
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228
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1930s
2003
Adult
18+ years
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