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Thank you GR friend Tania for strongly recommending the audio, narrated by the fabulous Aoife McMahon, “Beautiful World, Where Are You�� by Sally Rooney. If you haven’t heard Aoife McMahon narrate before, treat yourself to any of her works.

This is my second book that I’ve listened to by Rooney and narrated by McMahon. For me, a woman in her mid 60’s, it’s McMahon’s voice that adds depth to Rooney’s work. In “Normal People��, Rooney gives voice to the young adults in their late teens and early twenties. In this one, Rooney philosophizes the internal struggles of young adults in their mid to late twenties all the way into their very early thirties. Particular notice is given to romance, work, friendship, and morals. Given that I did not read this(I chose the audio), I was surprised that Rooney’s usage emails and texts grated on some readers. I enjoyed listening to McMahon reading those formats. It was obvious that she was reading either a letter or an email. Listening to this, rather than reading it, worked for me.

Another personal interest is that Rooney is proclaimed to be the writer who defines Millennials. Much of the discussions and angst of the novel are universal for that age. I empathized with so much of the story in that I struggled with some of the same angst and feelings when I was that age (over 30 years ago). It’s an age when young adults are wrestling with finding meaning in the world. I was single in my early thirties (when the novel’s main characters are single), and I certainly recall similar feelings of dating, friendships, and work. It’s a time when young adults are almost their worst enemy, finding self-sabotage abundant (at least for me). The childish dating games played are common in that age group.

Of course, technology has changed tremendously, and all those references are true Millennial. Additionally, the characters are far more concerned with the environment, mental health, social class issues, and our impact on the environment than the Baby-Boomer generation. Another difference, Rooney does enjoy her erotica. In both novels I’ve read of hers, that is one issue that leaves me uncomfortable. Not a fan of sex scenes��.again, old lady here. But it’s what you get with Rooney.

I enjoy Rooney’s work in that I use those sorts of work to keep contemporary. My children are of that age group, and I feel that I gain some empathy when I read Rooney. I obtain understanding of my children’s issues, especially since none are married (although living with their significant other). Rooney gives voice to that age.

Ratings:
Storyline 3 stars
Narrations 5 stars
Audio format 4 stars