"Ordinary People" is a novel written by Judith Guest, published in 1976. It tells the story of the Jarrett family, particularly focusing on the son, Conrad, who is struggling with survivor's guilt after the death of his older brother, Buck, in a boating accident. The novel explores themes of grief, guilt, mental health, and the dynamics of family relationships. Conrad, the protagonist, is dealing with depression and attempting to cope with his feelings of responsibility for his brother's death. He becomes withdrawn and suicidal, leading to his admission to a psychiatric hospital. Throughout the novel, Conrad attends therapy sessions and tries to rebuild his life while dealing with the strained relationship with his parents, Calvin and Beth Jarrett. Calvin, Conrad's father, tries to be supportive and understanding but struggles to connect with his son. Meanwhile, Beth, Conrad's mother, is portrayed as emotionally distant and unable to come to terms with her son's emotional struggles, focusing instead on maintaining appearances and ignoring the family's underlying issues. The novel delves into the complexities of grief and the challenges of communication within a family unit. It explores the ways in which individuals cope with tragedy and the impact it can have on familial relationships. "Ordinary People" received critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of family dynamics and its sensitive treatment of mental health issues. In 1980, it was adapted into a highly successful film directed by Robert Redford, which won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
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