An American classic first published in 1985 by William Morrow and adapted into an Academy Award-winning film, The Cider House Rules is among John Irving’s most beloved novels. Set in rural Maine in the first half of the twentieth century, it tells the story of Dr. Wilbur Larch—saint and obstetrician, founder and director of the orphanage in the town of St. Cloud’s, ether addict and abortionist. … abortionist. It is also the story of Dr. Larch’s favorite orphan, Homer Wells, who is never adopted.
“A novel as good as one could hope to find from any author, anywhere, anytime. Engrossing, moving, thoroughly satisfying.” —Joseph Heller, author of Catch-22
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One of my favorite books that asks what’s moral behavior in a complicated world.
Wonderful, memorable, classis John Irving. One of the best books I’ve ever read.
A wonderful story! I loved reading this book. I also saw the movie, but the book was much better.
One of my favorite authors
John Irving at his best
I recommend anything authored by John Irving.
Irving has been one of the most interesting, if sometimes not the most talented, fin de sickle writers in America. This book, though an early on of his, remains his best, and by a fair amount. His portrayals of how we mistreat each other (families, professions, leaders) is done in hauntingly beautiful tones and rhythms. Some of his subsequent work …
John Irving can be hit or miss, this was a hit.
One of my favorite books of all time!
If you loved the movie, you’ll love the book even more. It was hard to put down.
A coming of age story that means the world to me. So many things that Homer Wells confronts (most of all being that he is the “son” of a doctor, as I am) and the overbearing responsibilities of following his “father’s” profession, were themes that resonate deeply in my own personal experiences. I rarely choose favorites, but TCHR is top of my …
This one of my favorite books. The subject matter is difficult at times. But it makes you look at the characters and see through their eyes why some of the decisions they made, were made. It is a book that can be discussed. I would recommend for a book club.
Cider House Rules is one of my favorite reads of all time!
As all of John Irving’s books, the characters come off of the page with their realism. There are always plot twists and moral ambiguities that stay with you long after the book is completed.
Cider House Rules should be required reading for all those against ANY abortion!
Great writer. All his books are well written. I would recommend this book to others