Bewilderment by Richard Powers delves into a father's struggle to help his extraordinary, troubled son in a contemporary setting. Reviews praise its emotional depth, intricate prose, and exploration of environmental themes. Some critics found the narrative overly ambitious and occasionally dense. Despite this, the poignant portrayal of familial bonds resonates strongly.

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Bewilderment. Richard Powers.

A reader who enjoys Bewilderment by Richard Powers likely appreciates literary fiction that explores complex emotional and scientific themes. Fans of Powers' The Overstory or Anthony Doerr's All the Light We Cannot See will find resonance in its profound narrative that merges environmental concerns with intimate human experiences.

Bewilderment by Richard Powers is a 2021 novel set in the near future amidst a collapsing environment, following astrobiologist Theo Byrne and his neurodivergent son Robin as they navigate personal and societal challenges after the death of Robin's mother, Alyssa. Their journey includes efforts to cope without psychoactive drugs, excursions into nature, and participation in a groundbreaking neuroscience experiment to help Robin manage his emotions. Sensitive topics include the death of a child and environmental crises.

Richard Powers

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Bewilderment Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1, Pages 1-47

Bewilderment Part 1, Pages 1-47 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Pages 47-97

Bewilderment Part 2, Pages 47-97 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Pages 97-141

Bewilderment Part 3, Pages 97-141 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Pages 141-195

Bewilderment Part 4, Pages 141-195 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Bewilderment Character Analysis

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Themes

Bewilderment Themes

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Bewilderment Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Bewilderment Important Quotes

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Bewilderment Essay Topics

Bewilderment

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