All the Ugly and Wonderful Things by Bryn Greenwood is a provocative, deeply emotional novel exploring complex, controversial relationships. Its raw narrative and strong characterization leave a lasting impact, though some readers find the subject matter uncomfortable and challenging. An evocative read for those open to morally gray storytelling.

Readers who relish complex, morally ambiguous stories would enjoy Bryn Greenwood's All the Ugly and Wonderful Things. Fans of Vladimir Nabokov's Lolita or Emma Donoghue's Room will appreciate this novel's controversial themes and compelling character studies. It's ideal for those who seek emotional depth and challenging societal norms in fiction.

In All the Ugly and Wonderful Things by Bryn Greenwood, eight-year-old Wavy, struggling with her parents' drug-fueled chaos, forms a controversial bond with Kellen, a 24-year-old man working for her father. Their relationship, shrouded in innocence while hidden, faces cruel societal judgment when exposed, forcing them to reassess their feelings and face public scrutiny. Sensitive topics include abuse, drug use, incarceration, intense violence, and a sexualized relationship between an adult and a minor.

Mysterious / Dark / Emotional / Challenging / Bittersweet

Bryn Greenwood

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore All the Ugly and Wonderful Things reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read All the Ugly and Wonderful Things | SuperSummary

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Overview

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All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Summary and Study Guide

Background

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1 Part 1, Chapters 1-6

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Part 1, Chapters 1-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 7-12

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Part 1, Chapters 7-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 2 Part 2, Chapters 1-6

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Part 2, Chapters 1-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 7-13

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Part 2, Chapters 7-13 Summary & Analysis

Part 3 Part 3, Chapters 1-6

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Part 3, Chapters 1-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 7-12

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Part 3, Chapters 7-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 4 Part 4, Chapters 1-6

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Part 4, Chapters 1-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 7-13

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Part 4, Chapters 7-13 Summary & Analysis

Part 5 Part 5, Chapters 1-8

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Part 5, Chapters 1-8 Summary & Analysis

Part 5, Chapters 9-16

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Part 5, Chapters 9-16 Summary & Analysis

Part 5, Chapters 17-21

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Part 5, Chapters 17-21 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Character Analysis

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Themes

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Themes

Symbols & Motifs

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things Essay Topics

All the Ugly and Wonderful Things

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read All the Ugly and Wonderful Things?

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Book Details