The Hotel New Hampshire — Reader discussion

I found The Hotel New Hampshire to be a fascinating blend of humor and heartbreak, which really sets it apart from typical family dramas. Irving’s characters are so flawed yet endearing, and the way he portrays their struggles with loss and identity feels incredibly authentic. The quirky, almost surreal moments provide a much-needed levity without undermining the emotional depth. What struck me most was how the novel embraces imperfection in relationships and still finds room for profound affection. Did anyone else feel like the eccentric family dynamics made the story more relatable rather than alienating?

One aspect I appreciated about The Hotel New Hampshire is how Irving doesn’t shy away from difficult themes like trauma and grief, but he weaves them into the narrative with a kind of hopeful absurdity. The recurring motif of the hotel itself as a sanctuary and a symbol of both chaos and stability really resonated with me. It’s a story that acknowledges pain but also celebrates survival in the most unconventional ways. How do you think the setting of the hotel influences the characters’ development throughout the book?