"The Hotel New Hampshire" is a novel written by John Irving. Published in 1981, the book is a work of fiction that blends elements of comedy, tragedy, and coming-of-age storytelling. Like many of John Irving's novels, it features a unique cast of characters and explores themes of family dynamics, identity, and the complexities of human relationships.
The story revolves around the Berry family, particularly the father, Win Berry, and his children. The Berrys are a quirky and unconventional family who own and operate a hotel called the Hotel New Hampshire at various locations throughout the book. The novel follows the family's adventures and misadventures over several decades and in different places, including New Hampshire, Vienna, and other locales.
The novel's narrator is John Berry, one of the Berry children. Through his perspective, readers witness the family's ups and downs, including their interactions with eccentric characters, their personal struggles, and their efforts to find love, acceptance, and a sense of belonging.
"The Hotel New Hampshire" addresses themes of loss, trauma, resilience, and the ways in which people come to terms with their past. The book explores the complexities of family relationships, including sibling dynamics and the challenges of growing up in an unconventional environment.
John Irving's writing style is characterized by its wit, dark humor, and emotional depth. The novel combines moments of humor and absurdity with more serious and introspective themes, creating a unique blend of tones and emotions.