A Prayer for Owen Meany

""I am doomed to remember a boy with a cracked voice". So begins a tale of unlikely friendship, and the search for purpose in a cruel, seemingly pointless world. John, now an embittered English professor, struggles to make sense of the mysterious life of his best friend Owen, and the inevitable destiny which haunted him ever since a memorable Christmas Carol performance when they were children. Owen is an absolutely original and unforgettable character: a midget with a perpetually childlike voice who in no way acts or is perceived as a child; a rebel, truth teller, lover and eventually tragic hero. Set just prior to and during the Vietnam War in Irving's flinty New Hampshire (granite work plays a significant role), this remarkable novel wrestles with questions of fate, belief and how to lead a meaningful life."

"just could not get into this book. I never got past the 3rd chapter. I probably will try it again."

"A wonderful, sad, touching story, but a lot of the book is just so <b>boring</b>! I'm torn between giving it 5 stars for the story or 2-3 stars for the experience of reading the book. I reckon 3.5 would be accurate."

"My heart will never be the same!<br/><br/>“INTO PARADISE MAY THE ANGELS LEAD YOU,’” he’d said over my mother’s grave; and so I say that one for him—I know it was one of his favorites.”"

"IMO, yes! I didn't like any other Irving's books that I tried unfortunately but I loved this one! One of those that stay with you for a long time. Hope you enjoy it ad well. :)"

"Loved loved this book! It’s unexpectedly hilarious and just unexpected. Also this book gives a great history refresher course. "

"Masterful storytelling at its best"

"Given this book’s gradual, relentless progression toward doom, it’s remarkable how many times it made me laugh aloud. <br/><br/>Owen Meany is one character I will not soon forget."