Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine, by Gail Honeyman

Isolated, socially awkward, approaching 30, Eleanor Oliphant seems initially to be a figure of derision with few redeeming features. Through her own words, thoughts and actions, she is gradually revealed to be scarred both physically and psychologically. Something truly horrific happened to Eleanor as a child, the details of which come out very deliberately as we get to know her. It stunted her emotional growth, making it almost impossible to leave the past behind, let alone think about a future. Slowly, things begin to change for Eleanor when she sets her sights on a potential soul mate and incidentally makes a friend, almost despite herself. The book covers some deep and painful issues – PTSD; childhood trauma; the appalling lack of the child welfare system to address more than the most basic physical needs; and crippling loneliness. But it is also funny, quirky and insightful, with a strong and sweet message about the prime importance of kindness. The book is not perfect. Eleanor’s relationship with her mother is a little hard to believe and the speed of her recovery through counselling is a stretch. Her almost total lack of familiarity with popular culture is amusing but not quite credible. Nevertheless it is warm and appealing and it is unsurprising that Reece Witherspoon has optioned it for a film.