Literature Reviews - 2025

Comprehensive Review of Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell

Rainbow Rowell’s Eleanor & Park is a deeply moving young adult novel that transcends the clichés of teenage romance by exploring themes of love, identity, family dysfunction, and social acceptance. Set in 1986, the novel follows two misfits—Eleanor, a red-haired girl from a troubled home, and Park, a quiet, half-Korean boy—who find solace and companionship in each other amidst the cruelty of high school life.

Plot and Characters

From the moment Eleanor steps onto the school bus and is reluctantly offered a seat next to Park, their relationship evolves from silent tension to shared comics and music, and ultimately, into an intense first love. Eleanor’s home life is oppressive—she lives in poverty, in a cramped house with her mother, siblings, and an abusive stepfather. Park, on the other hand, comes from a relatively stable but emotionally complex family, where he struggles with his identity and his father’s expectations.

The dual perspectives of Eleanor and Park give readers an intimate view into their thoughts, fears, and growing affection. Their dialogue is raw and authentic, filled with nervousness, sarcasm, and deep emotion. Eleanor’s skepticism and self-doubt contrast beautifully with Park’s unwavering belief in their relationship.

Writing Style and Themes

Rowell’s prose is simple yet profound. Her depiction of young love is poignant and lyrical, evident in lines such as:
"Eleanor was right. She never looked nice. She looked like art, and art wasn’t supposed to look nice; it was supposed to make you feel something."

The novel captures the magic and turbulence of first love while tackling weighty themes like domestic abuse, bullying, racism, and self-acceptance. Eleanor’s struggles highlight the lasting impact of an abusive home environment, while Park’s journey explores identity and masculinity, particularly as a biracial teenager in a predominantly white community.

Cultural and Social Context

While Eleanor & Park has been widely praised, it has also faced criticism, particularly regarding its portrayal of race. Some have pointed out that Park’s Korean heritage is not deeply explored, and his mother's characterization leans toward stereotypes. However, others appreciate that Rowell addresses the complexities of racial identity and societal expectations.

The book also portrays the harsh realities of class disparities and the impact of domestic abuse on children, making it more than just a love story. Eleanor’s life is riddled with fear and instability, and Park’s love, while powerful, is not a magical solution to her problems. Rowell avoids romanticizing hardship, ensuring the novel remains grounded in realism.

Impact and Reception

The novel has been met with widespread acclaim, earning a Michael L. Printz Honor and becoming a bestseller. Critics and readers alike have praised its emotional depth, relatability, and nostalgic 1980s setting, enhanced by the characters’ love for music and comics. Some have found the ending frustratingly open-ended, but it effectively reflects the uncertainty of young love and the lingering impact of first relationships.

Final Thoughts

Eleanor & Park is a beautifully written novel that resonates with readers of all ages. Its portrayal of first love, coupled with its unflinching look at social issues, makes it a standout in young adult literature. While it may not be perfect in its cultural representation, its raw honesty and emotional power make it an unforgettable read. Whether you’re drawn to stories of love, resilience, or self-discovery, Eleanor & Park is a book that lingers long after the final page.