A Prayer for Owen Meany Book Summary

by John Irving84

TL;DR

A Prayer for Owen Meany is a profound novel by John Irving that explores faith, friendship, and destiny through the lives of two boys in a small New England town, culminating in extraordinary and terrifying events.

What is A Prayer for Owen Meany about

A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving is an intricate novel revolving around the lives of two eleven-year-old boys, John Wheelwright and Owen Meany, in the small town of Gravesend, New Hampshire. The story begins with a tragic accident during a Little League baseball game in 1953, where a foul ball hit by Owen kills John's mother. This event sets the stage for a journey that delves into deep themes of fate, destiny, faith, and the divine. Owen, who believes he is an instrument of God, radically shapes John's beliefs and life, making him a devout Christian. The novel is renowned for its rich character development, intricate plot, and philosophical depth.

A Prayer for Owen Meany 6 Key Takeaways

The Foul Ball Incident

The novel opens with young Owen Meany hitting a foul ball during a Little League game, tragically killing his best friend John's mother. This event becomes the cornerstone of the story, profoundly affecting both boys' lives.

Owen's Belief in Divine Purpose

Owen Meany believes that his life is guided by divine intervention and that he is an instrument of God. This belief shapes his actions and decisions throughout the novel, influencing those around him.

John's Struggle with Faith

After the tragic death of his mother, John Wheelwright grapples with his faith. His relationship with Owen and witnessing Owen's unwavering belief eventually lead John to embrace Christianity.

Political and Social Backdrop

The novel is set against the backdrop of significant American historical events, including the Vietnam War and the political turmoil of the 1960s and 1970s, which add depth and context to the narrative.

Owen's Premonitions

Owen experiences premonitions about his future, including the exact date and nature of his death. These visions drive the plot towards its dramatic and poignant climax.

The Climactic Sacrifice

The story culminates in Owen's ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling his premonitions and solidifying his role as a martyr-like figure. This act profoundly impacts John, cementing his faith and the novel's themes of destiny and purpose.

Top A Prayer for Owen Meany Quotes

  • 'I am doomed to remember a boy with a wrecked voice…because he was the reason I believe in God.'
  • 'Your memory is a monster; you forget—it doesn't. It simply files things away. It keeps things for you, or hides things from you—and summons them to your recall with a will of its own.'

Who should read A Prayer for Owen Meany?

A Prayer for Owen Meany is perfect for readers who appreciate deeply layered novels that explore profound themes such as faith, destiny, and friendship. The book will resonate with those who enjoy intricate character development and thought-provoking narratives.

About the Author

John Irving is a celebrated American novelist and Academy Award-winning screenwriter. Born in 1942, Irving is known for his rich storytelling and memorable characters. His notable works include 'The World According to Garp,' 'The Cider House Rules,' and 'A Prayer for Owen Meany.' Irving's novels often explore complex themes and are marked by their depth and emotional resonance.

A Prayer for Owen Meany Best Reviews

  • 'A Prayer for Owen Meany is a masterful tale of faith and friendship. John Irving's storytelling is both heart-wrenching and hilarious, making this novel a timeless classic.' - The New York Times
  • 'Irving has created a character in Owen Meany who is unforgettable. The book is a beautiful exploration of belief, destiny, and the power of friendship.' - The Washington Post

A Prayer for Owen Meany FAQs

What is 'A Prayer for Owen Meany' about?

The novel follows the lives of two boys, John Wheelwright and Owen Meany, whose friendship and faith are tested by a tragic accident and extraordinary events, exploring themes of destiny and belief.

Is 'A Prayer for Owen Meany' a true story?

No, the novel is a work of fiction. Although it contains reflections on American history and small-town life, the character Owen Meany is entirely a product of John Irving's imagination.

Why is 'A Prayer for Owen Meany' considered a good book?

The novel is praised for its exploration of themes like faith and friendship, its richly developed characters, and its ability to blend humor with serious, thought-provoking content.