Book Review: A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving

byJiayun

Owen Meany was the best friend John Wheelwright ever had...that is, until he died. In A Prayer for Owen Meany, John tells the story of his current life in Canada and his past in Gravesend, New Hampshire.

As a main character, Owen is a miniscule boy. To make up for his small size, Owen has a fantastic voice and a sharp mind. He is witty, cunning, and funny at the same time. Through him, Irving expresses distaste for the Vietnam War and the belief in fate (among many others). Owen believed in fate. In fact, he thinks God uses him as an instrument to finish tasks. These tasks include: saving John from total failure, enlightening the people around him by his unique opinions, and killing Tabitha (John’s mother).

After Owen’s death, John moves to Canada to move on with his life and forget about his hatred toward the US government for fighting Vietnam. Unfortunately, this does not work because he keeps up-to-date with American news by reading the newspaper. As he reads, his mind flashes back to events from the past. One time, he recalls Owen playing a game with his cousins. During this game, his girl cousin Hester tickles Owen as a friendly gesture and Owen wets his pants.

Interesting and intriguing are only a few words to describe this fantastic book. If anyone is interested in literary novels, this is a great book to analyze! In fact, everything Owen Meany says about his perspective of the world and life itself is unique. At one point, he tells John one’s belief in God does not necessarily show, one just knows God is there and believes it.

Most of you probably know John Irving from his book The Cider House Rules, which was made into a movie. A Prayer for Owen Meany has also been made into a film called Simon Birch. Grab this book as a fun read, or for English class. It has plenty of information to analyze if anyone needs to write a paper.

NOTE: This book is recommended for a mature audience, or anyone in grades 10 and up due to vulgar language and sexual suggestions.