Does Normal People work on TV? The genius of Sally Rooney explained

JOIN THE GUMPTION CLUB: / thegumptionclub You love it, you hate it - but the BBC THREE adaptation of 2018 novel Normal People is here and I'm here to tell you whether it's any good. But first - a defence of Sally Rooney's book for the sceptics.
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[@leenanorms]

👋 Hi! What's that? You'd like some more TV / movie videos to peruse? Well, why didn't you say so: ○ F.R.I.E.N.D.S: the books I would throw at them: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o3PYqH-mo9aiadU ○ Which Emma movie is better? 2020 or 1996? kzbin.info/www/bejne/rILCdap3g5iYrNk ○ 90's films that warned us: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m2qsdoutm9F3etE

[@hatsandadreamcatcher]

Oh my lord, I watched it all far too quickly, my soul is CRUSHED, my heart is full and I'm immediately buying the book. Also, fighting the urge to do the quarantine fringe, hold me back!!

[@flossssssy]

Rhiannon Segar DO THE FRINGE

[@mattsaracen7]

Please read conversations with friends too! I wouldn't say it's as good but still a special read

[@kc8923]

I watched it twice within a week and am only just recovering! Listening to interviews with Sally Rooney regarding her work has been one of the unexpected and pleasurable after effects.

[@skyefeyden]

Are you me?

[@charlieadams2084]

I binged it from 11 till like 2:30 am and I've never cried so much whilst not trying to wake my whole family

[@erickagreen6049]

Char A I cried soooo much 😂😂

[@amandaliu3818]

Same here!!!

[@jeremyguglielmo6312]

Started watching it last night and couldn't stop until the end. Definitely lacking sleep today. Wishing there was more. I hope they pick up from where it left off one day. It feels so real.

[@ludovicagarritano6691]

Hi, I literally did the same, 2:15 am, here I am

[@acesword8330]

Watched from 1 to 4 on the first day of the year a good way to start off 2021

[@HT-dy5co]

As a 21 year old, I have never related to a romance more than with this series. It reminded me so much of past friendships/ relationships which served different purposes at different parts of my life. (Because I am from a generation that doesn't define things 😂) As for people who don't like the ending, I see it as the best way it ended as it's showing that they are there for each other but aren't hindering each other nor defining each other. They are on their owns paths and are being supported by each other, and to have a friend that you are that connected to is everything!!!

[@leenanorms]

Absolutely, couldn’t have said it better myself!

[@arianajugo5754]

YES I felt kind of nostalgic like it brings so many memories. Also, sometimes people forget that partners are not to define us or carry with our problems but to give their support in hard moments and share the good ones.

[@indiabenjamin403]

Completely agree, it’s such an accurate depiction of our generation

[@amandaliu3818]

I don’t even relate to that because my relationships always work because me and my partners are good at expressing our feelings towards each other, but I love the show so much! To be honest I don’t think I’ve ever had a Marrian or Conell in my social circle and maybe that’s why their story is so refresing to me.

[@NomenFugazi]

I can see the ending if they are friends with benefits. But if you are truly in love you don’t separate from the other person for no good reason ;for something as vague as”I like my life here in Ireland “,especially since there was no evidence of anything that likable for her there that I was able to discern. A hostile,unloving family,no real friends to speak of,nor a meaningful job.I’m sorry,l just don’t get it. Must be my age and intellectual limitations.

[@hanakelly36]

The intimacy in the series was directed by Ita O'Brien, an intimacy coordinator whose job it is to make the actors feel comfortable and not exploited!

[@Gabrielle11733]

@erin Immediately thought of this when reading the comment above! :)

[@sbirrito]

ok .and?

[@naomihyde5361]

She was the intimacy coordinator for Sex Education as well!

[@lianmitchell1428]

Naomi Hyde that is also a great show! She does an amazing job!

[@marvel096]

So good to hear!! Paul said he felt safe and empowered during the sex scenes!

[@ismeneedecaste3592]

I can understand how there can be people who totally dislike this book. I don't think it's for everyone. I'm just extremely grateful that a story like this is out there; if anything this is a story about people who struggle with themselves, who don't have all the answers from the start, who can't find the courage, or even the will sometimes, to find themselves. It's about how weaknesses can control who you are and the life you eventually live because of that. It's about your own self being your worst enemy, but then it's also about how love between two people can help them find themselves as individuals. There are so many different kinds of people out there. Not everyone has to deal with issues like this, or even to this extreme. It's good that there are stronger and more confident and self-assured people out there, I truely envy having those characteristics. But that's the thing about this book. It shows the world that for some people it really takes a long freakin time and a hell of a lot of work to get to some sort of a good place in life. And there are so many people who have to do all this by themselves, who aren't as lucky as Marianne and Connell to find eachother. So, I repeat, that I am grateful that more of a spotlight is shone on people like the two of them...

[@Frankiez220]

They didn’t give their bodies first, the chemistry was so strong and as was said in the film that “its almost like I can read your mind”. They were so in sync that sex was just the most normal and natural thing to happen. The mind connection was there from the beginning.

[@cstrughold5137]

Agreed.

[@amandaliu3818]

Agreed!

[@tripletroubletruffle9827]

yeah. it was meant to be!

[@ArielBissett]

Too late, Leena. My fringe is freshly cut!!!!!!

[@leenanorms]

Ah WE CAN’T SAVE ‘EM ALL, I’m sure you’re pulling it off x

[@positivitia5658]

Orla gartlands song heavy being featured in the ad for normal people was amazing

[@strawwberryyy]

i know right :'( that's basically what even got me into this book/show in the first place

[@CharlotteTeakle]

She’s on the soundtrack as well!

[@skeingamepodcast5993]

I was in a relationship like this in my 20's. Seduced by a guy who was devastatingly beautiful and I thought was too cool for me so I let him do things and say things that were actually harmful. But we worked together and he didn't want anyone to know...though everyone obviously knew and didn't care. It's not like it was against work policies. Anyways, this book and show made me feel so many things and my husband doesn't get it lol I think this story doesn't have a generation. A lot of people of any age can relate to some part of this story.

[@cstrughold5137]

I feel like Rooney's ending is more traditional than some critics have suggested. Sure, what happens next isn't nailed down, but it's not like they break-up, they don't fall out or go off with other people or die. She ends with them in love with each other, and it's suggested that they'll always be in love with each other. The fact that they may not be physically in the same location is almost incidental. I think that's closer to the "forever love" trope than not. And as an old romantic, I'm glad about that.

[@unsoloparpadeo2600]

At last that’t what i understand too.

[@aranzag.177]

Something that i loved about the series is that you felt that you are with them. It feels so intimate.

[@wibbley_wobbly3580]

I felt so frustrated by the miscommunication between the characters in the book, but your take made me empathize with them more, thanks!

[@nicolah2011]

This was *chef’s kiss*

[@leenanorms]

hahah thank you!

[@LarryS378]

I felt frustrated at some of the 'rough edges' that felt missing from the show. For example, Marianne's brother splashing her with water instead of spitting on her, Connell having a snog with his teacher instead of what happens in the book, and also I feel like Marianne's ignorance of wealth inequality wasn't really included either? What I liked about the book was that.. I didn't necessarily like the characters. I liked them because I didn't like all of them... if that makes sense. Like, they weren't perfect abnormal made-up people. They were 'normal' I guess. Otherwise I loved the show.

[@alanrachins3176]

At eighty, I my not be in the demographic for this series, but I loved it with tears in the eyes, and a lump in the throat in the same passionate way as the 571 comments underneath your video. Is that a record? You, Leena, are a glorious force of nature. I envy your facility at externally expressing what I feel inside about this glorious, sensitively rendered gem.

[@mrtfashionx]

The fringe!!!!! You spoke to me Leena, I was THIS close to chopping away

[@rosiehampton]

When you were talking about her goodness and dependency/independency & how good they are for each other, I cried! You speak so wonderfully Leena, thank you for a fantastic video!! Can't wait to cry all the way through this series

[@minetteglynn5147]

Just binge watched the whole series and my eyes HURT from crying and my heart is full🥺

[@hunnerdayEDT]

I LOVED this show. Real talk. As a female from the US, Connell is me. His personality sooooo matches mine. I think I loved it because I have never seen a character like me before. (By that I meant how clearly the show showed the disconnect between what goes on in the mind and what comes out of the mouth). Instant fave. Binged it in one night.

[@visionblurry1232]

I binged this till 3am last night the amount of times I cried, definitely one of the best series I've ever watched. It was so incredibly real, didn't hide from anything absolutely adored it! X

[@franug]

Normal People is the first book that has made me cry, and I read a lot! Idk, maybe I was hormonal at the time, but everything rang so true to me. I'm going to sound cheesy but it reminded me so much of my relationship with my husband: we also started young; I was bullied in school whilst he was liked by everyone although he's shy (just like Connell); we broke up several times during uni; we both had pretty rough times because of mental issues during our 20s, etc. Same as with the miscommunications - which are so common at that age when you don't really know who you are or what you want to do with your life - and the interdependency. It's easy to slip into full dependency at that age, but you must learn to be yourself before having a succesful relationship, in my opinion, something it took me a while to learn. The open ending of Normal People doesn't hinder the beauty of that realization, imho. Anyways, I felt strangely validated by the book, lol, and the TV series was also increible!

[@laureb7697]

I really loved Normal People, there was something so elegant and specific and precious about it that made it a very compelling read

[@annieforbes5239]

I was off sick from work on Tuesday. On a whim I read the book on kindle in the morning and ended up binging the TV series in the afternoon. As a 25 year old their story felt so achingly familiar that I couldn't look away. I don't think I've ever read something that felt so true to my own experience of life that didn't minimise the importance of such events on our lives. Don't think I could loved either the book or the series more than I do.

[@lucyrutherford]

For any Australians watching it’s getting a same day release on Stan which is very exciting as we usually have to wait ages for BBC shows to appear somewhere. I was hesitantly excited for this but now I am full blown excited I can’t wait!

[@adamsalyce]

Have been waiting all month since I read it in Stan's announcement.

[@NevxrBackDown]

Just finished watching it & it's my new favourite romance drama, although tbf I'm a 24 y/o guy & haven't watched many shows within that genre.

[@shaunaisaJellyBean]

Can confirm as a current student, this portrays trinity perfectly

[@umeriftikhar4103]

Not for me...

[@NomenFugazi]

Shauna Kelly As an American I have a hard time understanding the so called class division.Sure, we have a huge wealth disparity,but it seems,here it’s more important where you are going than where you come from.At least,that’s my take.

[@una877]

@@NomenFugazi are you talking about Trinity specifically? Rubbing shoulders with extremely wealthy and elite private school people (+ British upper class aristocracy kids) as a young working or lower middle class Irish person makes the concept of class abundantly clear. Wealthy kids don't usually have to work on the side, have no trouble finding accommodation amid the housing crisis, and thus can focus on their studies more, spend weekends doing extra curricular activities, making important connections and tapping into networks that will advance their future careers, esp in the Arts field. Also, Trinity has a reputation for being very elitist, and the social culture there is made for rich privileged kids. Maybe class doesn't appear relevant in college at surface level but it still overwhelmingly determines trajectory thereafter.

[@NomenFugazi]

@@una877 una. What I was saying is that here in America the socio-economic background of students seems less consequential to their social life in college and their career trajectory thereafter, than what was depicted in Normal People.That’s not saying that we don’t have numerous and severe economic and social problems,God knows we do.Being ostracized in college for ones background,however,isn’t one of them,in my view.There was a huge scandal recently,involving a number of wealthy individuals who bought admittance for their children to some prestigious schools.It didn’t end well for them,to say the least. I thoroughly enjoyed watching Normal People,what a great series it was.

[@mia5419]

This show and book have just been haunting me and I need to talk about it, even if it's to myself. This really touched something deep within me. I think I sobbed every episode and that's the most I've cried at anything fictional. But the emotion of this show, the sadness, it felt so real because it wasn't the sort of dramatic melancholy that I've become desensitised to, such as a car accident or something (still very sad, don't get me wrong, but it's so terrible I can't comprehend how awful it would be.) No, this was the sort of everyday, scarily possible sadness, and the emotions really resonated because I've felt them before, that crippling fear of completely surrendering yourself to someone, that feeling where it's like this invisible string inexplicably keeps pulling you back to someone and you feel powerless to it. I know a lot of other people have too. The show especially shone a spotlight on my own emotions that I've tried to bury deep down out of that fear, and I'm so thankful. It's fucked me up completely, but I wouldn't have it any other way.

[@rebeccaparke3453]

Watching the TV series, I really loved the character of Marianne. There are very few shows that depict the complicated nuances that come with being in a different social class to most your peers. Marianne's difficult home life doesn't make her the stereotype of money can't buy you everything but insteads grounds in her reality. As a teenager who has always felt like a bit of an outsider in school, characters like Marianne give me so much hope for college. I also really Paul Mescal as Connell. He is so handsome but in a very familiar Irish sort of way. I feel like I know a lot of boys like Connell, who just like girls, really struggle with their identity as they start figuring out their place in life.

[@acrpug1380]

As an Irish actor, my friends and I have had a lot of feelings about the show. I absolutely adore the book and have enjoyed the show (only on episode 9) but I found it really disappointing that they cast Daisy Edgar Jones as Marianne because she is so stunningly beautiful and Marianne was never supposed to be that. Paul Mescal is a very average *normal* looking guy and we we fall for him because of who Connell is. But Marianne was also supposed to be a *normal* looking person and the whole point of their dynamic was that in school Connell could see her and all her beauty inside and out whereas those that can’t see beyond outward appearances didn’t find her attractive. And then in college she was valued more for her intelligence and style and personality and that all combined makes her a very attractive person. So I think it was miscast even though I do think Daisy Edgar Jones is a fantastic actor and I do enjoy watching them together because they have such beautiful chemistry. But I think it should open the bigger conversation about adaptational attractiveness and how nearly all of the time female characters are cast on TV and film to be much more attractive than they were described in the book but it never (or rarely) seems to be that way with male characters. We can accept normality in men but not in woman.

[@rwisem]

I disagree. Daisy fits the physical description, generally. She is slim and could be called flat-chested, as the boys in school did. Her nose is ticked up at the end and she has sad eyes. None of this matters when she lets her hair down and wears eye make-up. She then becomes beautiful, and although her wit and personality make her much more attractive in college, the transformation in her appearance allows us to see how others see her.

[@justsayin397]

Aoife C Ryan I disagree I think Paul Mescal is breathtakingly handsome ....... these eyes, that smile .... oh my days!

[@jasonlang9074]

I don’t think that most people consider Paul as “normal” looking. Also if people don’t find Marianne stunning go on the outside then the show did it right. Also they didn’t make Marianne overly beautiful. Daisy isn’t ugly by all means but they didn’t make her to be what most shows would make her out to be. I loved Connell because his character is so different from male characters. He was popular but had so much that he was going through and as a guy I feel like I never see male characters that are shown not only as “good” guys but also the fact that he was very complex. Both of these characters are so very complex and that’s what makes this show so great. I wouldn’t even consider either of these characters as “normal” either.

[@marvel096]

Paul mescal average looking?? No waaay. He’s extremely handsome, he looks like a Greek sculpture.

[@bridgallagher479]

So you're disregarding her because she's good looking, she got the part fair and square because she did the best audition. Reducing a woman to her looks because they are too good looking is also sexist. Also lots of women blossum in college. I was called ugly during secondary school and got bullied by boys, having none of them take any interest in me and I was a weird loner now I do modelling and also attended Trinity, these things happen all the time. There is such thing as an awkward teenage stage. Don't begrudge attractive people or anyone.

[@veronicadredd22]

Normal people is basically Blue is the Warmest Colour from an Irish perspective in how it portrays such intense and tender emotions shared between two people.

[@kateypage4847]

I liked the removal of the whole Sadie issue in the book, with Marianne seemingly making such huge strides in her life at the end to suddenly slip back into such insecurity of questioning Connell's relationship with Sadie. Having said that it wasn't clear on screen if Marianne was now working. That would've shown huge character growth.

[@Maren617]

Can confirm that The Fringe only works on models and actresses! 😂

[@katzrinaa]

Normal People was one of my favourite books I read last year and I was so excited when I found out it was being made into a series and am even more excited after hearing your views! I'm planning on rereading the book over this weekend and them binging the series as soon as I'm finished and I cannot wait!!!

[@bookellenic1327]

New Normal People Stan over here, this was one of the few times I'm glad to have read the book before watching the show, this order definitely compliments both works.

[@DavidBrown310]

Fantastic piece you've created here. Really thoughtful, superb. I binged the show (twice) and then read the book this weekend (and the short story about the trip to the dentist). They've done an outstanding job bringing this material to the screen. The book and the show broke my heart, scooped up the pieces, put it back together, just to break it again over and over again. Thanks for this essay.

[@valentinasnotebook]

You're making me reconsider every thought I had about this book, I even made a long video discussing everything I didn't really like or understand from the book and watching this made me feel like we read two completely different books. You just made me consider reading it again at some point in the future maybe, but the show actually looks quite good and I might be watching that one soon.

[@quinnshipton]

Oh I am so glad you liked it! I was nervous too (pretty much all recent adaptations I’ve seen have been so lacking) but am now looking forward to being enchanted the way I was by the book 😊

[@ulrikepehlgrimm9425]

Thank you so much for explaining why everyone should love Normal People. I actually didn't like the book when I read it in 2018. I think my expectations were too high and I was in the completely wrong headspace or place in my life. Somehow I couldn't look past their flaws then, their own problems and the ways in which they mistreated each other. But OH MY GOD do I love the book now! I was intrigued when they announced the adaptation, somehow sensing that my opinion might change. And after watching the show, I have now re-read the book and could not love it more. It is so well done and the music and acting is stunning. All the things you mentioned suddenly jumped out at me from the text and having experienced a Connell and Marianne type encounter with someone, the story has just completely swept me away. I very much hope Sally Rooney keeps writing about these characters in years to come.

[@MonoiLuv]

"Jokes are beyond Dad" -- goodness Leena, thank you for that one. #TeamNormsal

[@wikeschippers8608]

Maybe I'm too used to the more cliche love stories. But to me, Normal People was really dark. I wasn't at all convinced they made each other better people. I actually feel like they may have taken each others insecurities and made them more tangible and less easy to root out. They just spend so much time feeling like the other person is somehow better then them in some fundamental way, and I often feel that's why they kept coming back together. It didn't actually feel too much like love to me. I don't know. It's possible I really misunderstood the book. I didn't think it was boring, or badly written. I'm not bugged by the open ending. But I don't really feel like going back to it, because it left me feeling so sad and cynical.

[@notlikewater]

It is definitely dark, but I think the reason they make each other's insecurities tangible is because their mutual vulnerability with one another an the love and the care that comes from forces them to confront them in ways that their more shallow and less trusting relationships allow them to avoid. That is ultimately a good thing because the way to overcome insecurities is to be aware of them and act accordingly. I do agree that their love is complicated because, as Leena talked about, they are two people who love words and yet can't manage to communicate with each other completely, at least when we see them. They seem to be on the same page as far as caring about one another, but when and what that looks like is where they seem to often differ. They know they are attracted to each other, drawn to one another, but they are trying to figure out in what way they are meant to coexist in each other's lives, and also for how long. And that last part feels very contemporary to me. I feel like Normal People gives attention to the idea that friendships and relationships have value regardless of if they are forever or not. It's something I really enjoyed in the book, and I can't wait to watch the series once it comes to Hulu in the US!

[@ninafischer3844]

I‘m not fully convinced they‘re good for each other, either. Finished the book with a very heavy feeling even though I loved it and feel the same sort of hesitation about reading it again.

[@indiabenjamin403]

It is a form of love, I don’t know if you’ve experienced this *sorta* relationship before but that’s why it made me so emotional and drawn to it, it was so accurate. I suppose the point is not the ‘true love’ aspect, it’s about learning how to love another person in this book, it’s a huge part of growing up which completely ( in mine and many other first relationships) involve insecurities, miscommunication and fear of loss.

[@jingjingjiang922]

wike schippers I just feel that lots of parts are farfetched and not logical, enlarging the drama of love instead of more deeply understand love and relationships behind the factors like family issues, personality defects, social values etc. it’s not moving and convincing for me...

[@wikeschippers8608]

@@notlikewater @India Benjamin I'm only seeing these replies now! Thanks for discussing these things with me! I think you kind of have a point. I think you need to know your insecurities to get over them, and maybe their mutual vulnerability did that for them. But there's a difference between learning about your own insecurities (and learning that those don't relate to your value as a person) and seeing them 100% confirmed by the outside world. And I felt like a substantial part of the insecurities they had may have actually come from their relationship. It might have been a realistic relationship, but I just felt like it was a really unhealthy one. It was like they could only rely on each other to prove they weren't bad or unlovable people. That self-respect shouldn't come solely from someone else. I know that point was sort of made in the story as well, but I really didn't feel like that had sunk in at the end of it. It's talked about that they have that self-respect relationship now, but I hadn't really seen them in a healthy relationship, so it fell kind of flat to me. *This is only about the book, haven't seen the series yet

[@lowimpactliv5022]

Wonderful video, thank you! I just binged Normal people and I needed this. My heart is numb, breaking and heard all at the same time.

[@gaber4476]

[spoilers kind of] Okay, I liked the book. I don’t need to be convinced, but I don’t understand why Marianne becoming a shell of a person, practically dead-alive with no desire whatsoever or anything to show for herself isn’t a topic of conversation. It’s terrorizing what happens to her, but no one seems to care? Did I imagine the last few pages or it’s just unimportant in face of her undying love for him? Can someone please explain?

[@ItsmeKristieB]

Gabriel Amancio HARD AGREE

[@andrealeoni5649]

@@ItsmeKristieB well it feels like she is now comfortable in her own shoes which is an accomplishment in itself

[@gabbyparr6099]

Gabriel Amancio what I saw was a girl who was battling her past and using “dangerous” sex and borderline, if not confirmed disordered eating to come to terms with her relationship with her father and what he put her family through- and the effect that it then had on her brother’s relationships with his mother and sister. I think she was using that to try to understand the “why” behind all of that. And I think she was punishing herself slightly because she thought that must be how she deserves to feel. But when she gets back home and she reunites with Connell, and he defends her, that’s the moment. That’s when I think she learns who she is, what she wants, and how she deserves to be treated. We saw glimpses of this agency when she leaves Lucas (I read it as audiobook, so I might be spelling his name wrong), but it wasn’t full-fledged until Connell gives her the “gift” of his goodness and she finally is able to fully and meaningfully separate herself from her family and live the life she deserves. She is then able to keep this newfound goodness for herself, to the point where she knows that she will be okay now, with or without Connell. She had to lose herself to find herself, but she did it. She’s incredibly strong, resilient, and beautiful in her grace. I agree that this aspect is underrated. It’s definitely the most relatable part of the story for me.

[@rwisem]

@@gabbyparr6099 I wholeheartedly agree. Connell wouldn't be where he is without her encouragement to study English at Trinity and her support during his depression. He taught her she was lovable and she could say to him that she was staying because she liked the life she now has. "It's quite something", she says.

[@BruhRodriguess]

@GabrielAmancio YEAH! All I could think about was "please, someone pay attention to her, she is not fine!" And there was Connell, talking about how he felt guilty for not noticing what was happening with his friend and yet not really beeing there to Marianne when she was clearly not ok. That made me deslike himm even more!

[@PriscaL]

So glad the show got your seal of approval- makes me feel much more assured going into watching it! I read it when it came out and listened to the audiobook recently in prep for the series coming out. I loved the book but my friend who read it did not so I love that you so eloquently put to words the feelings I had about the book :)

[@brittanib5412]

I loved...LOVED... this review. Every point you made was so accurate. I can’t imagine anyone who does like this book would disagree with anything you said. I’m so glad I found your review and now I’m going down the rabbit hole to watch more of your videos!

[@piamickels9942]

THANK YOU for this video leena!! i just reread the book again and was relieved to see i still love it as much as i did when i read it the first time, now i can be excited for sunday and crush on both of the actors in peace without fear of being disappointed by the show lol

[@c13bubbles]

can't get over that you put jacob & sons in my head when I had JUST gotten it out

[@laintrain]

HMMM think the sentence "her dependance made her independent" may have just changed my life????? neat-o. thanks for that one.

[@bookishme3635]

Yes to all of this. I often have a hard time explaining why I like stuff and it's the same with this book, but you captured most of my thoughts. My main descriptor for the book would be captivating, because I sat down to read and the only time I paused was to get food. I was (and still am) so invested in this story. At times it was a little frustrating, which to some degree was because of the whole "why can't they just talk to each other??", but like you said, it's not always that easy. And I have to admit that I was a bit back and forth on Marianne's venture into submission. I felt called out by Connell when he talks about how people in uni come to class to discuss books they actually haven't read. Binged the series a few days after reading and it was beautiful. So glad it is a series, because it gives you time to just be in the story and in the small moments, if that makes sense. The actors did an incredible job! I'm itching for a re-watch already, but I think I have to pace myself a bit. Also, the seduction of the fringe is real, but luckily it fades after a few days.

[@zozi3668]

Okay but this video was a perfect summary and collection of my (but really your) thoughts. I havnt read the book but I ADORED the series for the exact reasons you said. I loved your editing, your lighting, your humor, the fringe warning. 🤟🏼🤟🏼SNAPS SIS

[@that1sucked2BALLS]

leena, i just love to listen to you being excited about things, you have so much joy in you

[@andreeadumitrache4180]

What a beautiful review! You bring added value through your gorgeous lyrical points - I now love the book even more and can't wait for the show. Thank you!

[@RockTheMatYoga]

Thank you for this. I love how you manage to verbalise thoughts and feelings, that i struggle to even think/feel straight, so eloquently and compellingly. I’ve only just read ‘normal people’, because I felt I had missed my chance when it blew up in 2018 - I had been talking about it so much as a bookseller, that I didn’t want to read it anymore. I’m so glad I did, but good job I waited to be hungry for it. I read it and kept thinking: why am I so invested in the relatively normal Lives of these relatively normal people?! Good writing, that’s why! Anyway, thank you again for this video!

[@ninafischer3844]

I love this so much. Not only because I completely agree with everything you say, but your enthusiasm and your love to detail and your great sense of humour - thank you for content like this. It‘s very much appreciated!

[@davidgreeves85]

I loved your review. It summed up and captured the spirit of the novel and tv adaptation with great aplomb. As a 50 something man facing similar emotional and psychological challenges still, it took me back to the my late teens and uni days and the intensity of feeling in very simple moments but also my present life where the same fresh euphoria and reawakening of love can happen but be thwarted self doubt, poor judgement or by circumstances. That fragile beauty of love not some bland social contract is portrayed here and relevant for all ages.

[@theHanilu]

Honestly, whatever you recommend to me these days I just accept and agree with. Not in a "i don't think about them and question them" but you just have a great feeler for special things and describing them in such perfect ways - oftentimes bringing clarity to my own thoughs about them. And indeed, with Normal People you desribed it so perfectly and I wouldn't have watched it so quickly if it weren't for you. So thank you Leena for giving me more time in my life where have a source of comfort when thinking about past and probably future relationships.

[@JoyLandlocked]

Yes @ the Before series! One of my all-time favorites. Also, now you've got me wanting to reread this book even though I just read it in September (granted, that feels like years ago now!).

[@Sewnover]

In the process of watching it. Afraid to finish because I know I’ll be unable to cope for at least a day. I began watching after seeing your video and I. Can. Not. I have been frustratedly screaming at my television all day. Mainly because I relate so heavily to the communication breakdown. Currently and always very thankful for your content. 💕

[@saltanatberger5325]

I love the excerpts you chose to include. Such great picks! I l am definitely one who thoroughly enjoyed Normal People, preferring the book over the series. The series did give it some body, but I felt as if my mind was filling in any blanks that Rooney left me to interpret for myself. I felt so connected to them and their journey, but I think that is much related to my similar age to the characters and what not.

[@CharlotteTeakle]

This is a fantastic video !! well done for encapsulating everything so perfectly x

[@tantsqueeee]

The colors of this video really brightened my day! Also really interesting video, I read the book a few months ago but I don't remember much of it

[@HereBeBeth]

I am such a fan of both of Rooney’s novel that I ended up delivering a guest lecturer on the body and power in her work, so I adored this video. As a twenty something Irish woman from a rural community it is so nice to read well written, contemporary literature that I can actually relate to! Thanks for this Lena :)

[@TheHelican]

You have thoroughly reassured me about this, I loved the book so much and was so reticent about the series that I was even avoiding all of the promotional material. But after your review I think I might actually watch it.

[@unusefulmadness]

The quarantine fringe danger is real! Also absolutely loved this and need to read the book. Watched it all I one day while painting and it was bliss. I loved the approach to relationships and to see something on tv about love that finally felt so real!

[@mimisdailydose]

SO glad I found your video. I binged the series in a day and I’m completely blown away by it. I think It might be my favourite show ever. Just bought the book because I don’t want to give this story up. I loved every single part of it, as I could relate to it so much. I got sad towards the end, as I’m in my first long term relationship and I never want it to end, but every story about first loves I read ends with them not together anymore. Their chemistry in the series was insane. The sex and love scenes were so beautiful, tasteful and realistic, I loved it. I could relate so much. That intense love you feel for your partner, like nothing you’ve ever experienced before and you can’t imagine it getting any better. I’d LOVE to hear you review the entire series and talk about the end especially! Please please please do:)

[@SarahJane-cj5nn]

Hi Leena, just found this video and really enjoyed it so much! I love your explanation of both the book and TV show. Thank you so much for posting it. If you haven’t already watched Rosie, please do, Sarah Greene is brilliant in it. I don’t know anyone who loves this storytelling so I really appreciated hearing you talk about it. Thank you.

[@amyroseforder8442]

Loved loved loved this video. So excited to watch the series (esp as a final year literature student in Trinity ... we love a stereotype)

[@talkthruthenight2299]

Leena, I LOVE this background and your outfit. Pure joy, it brings so much light and colour into my student bedroom. I can't wait to read the book and watch the series!

[@leenanorms]

Xxx

[@emilysalamy7574]

This was so meaningful Leena, thank you!! I loved this so much ❤️

[@barbaragekoski129]

l loved it. Camilla Long in the Culture Magazine in Sunday Times called it soft porn which i found really offensive. Im 76 and it reminded me of innocent, gentle but erotic sex of the 50s and 60s Should be compulsory viewing for teenagers where sex is reflected in a real relationship. Hurrah for sally Rooney

[@SpeakinFrankly]

I really enjoyed the 6-hour long escape from reality! I totally agree with you, Leena, that they did really well in translating the world-creation in the book to the world-creation in the series. I was totally sucked in. The only point I might differ from you on is the casting. Paul Mescal is phenomenal as Connell. His harsh beautiful-ness, his portrayal as a country bumpkin out of place in Dublin, his acute sensitivity to class difference (especially in the way it shows up and doesn't show up in his relationship with Marianne) - all of it was so compelling in the series. I found myself unable to accept that he couldn't ask Marianne to stay with her after he loses his job while reading the book, but seeing it in the series really made sense somehow. With Marianne however, I had a completely different picture in my head from the book. I pictured her to be colder, harsher and blunter in school. Someone who seemed to have a steely demeanor, was very unapproachable, and hence unpopular in school. Daisy on the other-hand has such a warm and welcoming look about her. She looks vulnerable and soft, not foreboding so much. I also wish there was a way to show the audience how smart and thoughtful the protagonists were. In the series we have to take it from scholarship awards and he says-she says that these two characters are extremely bright. The quotations from the book you included in the video, show us how intelligent Connell is. In the series, we don't have access to these acutely insightful and intelligent reflections - and I thought it was a pity. Rant over! :D I love your videos, keep up the good work Leena!

[@gabrielaxitumul2746]

Love it! Your review was just bloody brilliant. Read the book with in 2 days. I didn’t know they had made it into a tv show till afterwards. Saw the show with in 1 day. Amazing adaptation.

[@ifwewerefeckless]

It's so funny that you mentioned Imogen Heap because when I was watching and it came on I sent an all caps text. The show was perfect. It was everything I wanted and wasn't sure could be done. My friend and I have also both sent each other messages to the tune of "I want a fringe please tell me not to cut my own fringe" throughout our binge of the series.

[@NoUnreadWords]

I just read normal people at the beginning of quarantine and absolutely loved it but haven’t had the chance to discuss it with anyone, so I absolutely loved this video! And I was really worried about the tv show as well, but now I’m reeeeaally looking forward to it!

[@thomson4247]

I was crushed by the series and was on the fence about reading the book however you have convinced me, I'm on it immediately

[@jenniwhatsbookin]

Omg I was so nervous about the show (because the book is probably my fav of all time now) but seeing how many giddy feelings the show gave you makes me now very excited to watch it

[@jennycornwell2324]

This is the best book review I've ever listened to! I love the way you critique both the book and the Tv adaptation. I enjoyed hearing your honesty and I like you have binged watched the whole series and I totally agree with everything you have said! Normal people will be the most talked about series during and after lockdown ! I'm glad BBC3 have made it into a series rather than a film because after each episode it enables the viewer to reflect on what they have seen and try to make sense on what each characters story is being told. On that note I think it's been cast to perfection. The story is current and I feel that a lot of young people who are embarking on a relationship will watch this and can relate to the first time sex is discussed and all the debate about " should we or shouldn't we " and Conal 's way that he Marianne feel safe in this situation is beautiful. I'm hoping that Sally Rooney will write a sequel and that this too will be made into a second series.

[@laurenshantz3302]

I bought this book upon your recommendation and I’m loving it! I felt so included watching this video haha. I love listening to your comments

[@LeahAspden]

I felt the waves of excitement through the screen and I’m the same level of fangirling about the whole thing this video gave me life thank you

[@BruhRodriguess]

i simply loooove this book! Almost everything was perfect for me and nobody can tell me that Connell deserves Marianne, she is tooo good for him!

[@gabbyparr6099]

I love that you love this novel and it’s adaption with as much passion and unabashed enthusiasm as I do 💕 Love to see it!

[@avivapeltin]

Just finished season one. Such a heartbreaking and beautiful show! You're making me want to read the book . . . I also ADORED Marianne's wardrobe, and I, too, want bangs now. :D

[@saraveal5503]

Imogen Heap!!! The Before series! Just seeing you made this video encouraged me to read the book, and now I will start the series tonight! Wonderful video, thank you.

[@Em.111.]

uhh yep thank you for your everlastig eloquence leena! watching your videos feels like I’m improving as a person

[@forgivemeloveology]

Loved this video and analysis! This book has stayed with me like no other. Such a fantastic look into relationships

[@annafranklin4981]

I really loved this review, so smart and fun. So thanks! Off to check out more of your videos. Yes I watched the show in one day. Next day, I read the book. Feels a bit excessive but it really got in my brain and was thinking about Marianne and Connell and what was going on in their heads. Loved the series.

[@jazzgirlie]

LEENA. This video was soo soo good. Arghhhh. I read normal people probably about a year ago, and all I want to do after watching your video is read it again (and binge the BBC series). THANK YOU.

[@taylorignatius]

This review was a riot, giggled the whole way through so much fun. Thanks a bunch

[@mirandataylor6641]

OMG! As an 18 yr old girl in a relationship during lockdown this filled my heart so much. I read the book sat in the storeroom at work and it took me two 4 hour shifts to finish it but wtf I couldn't put it down and I didn't care cos I had to keep reading. The way that the loneliness of school and friendships and hollow status-hungry relationships were portrayed, in my head anyways, was a masterpiece but also helped to highlight the key perspectives of both sides of the relationship. I made my boyfriend read this book a few months ago after I had finished it, and he actually really liked it despite not really enjoying books!?! I love Paul Mescal as Connell cos his accent and whole body language for the part was perfect in his silent but attentive manner. And who doesn't love a western accent???

[@katiewilliams8909]

I haven't read the book but this really makes me want to read it. 1 because my grandparents live near Sligo and so good hearing there is someone from the west of Ireland and also- to see an imperfect relationship, people putting sex first, going through trails-is so important, relatable and normal. Really enjoyed this video, Leena x

[@maccoombes8932]

First video if yours that I've seen... And I love it!! Normal people has rekindled my love for reading as I am completely obsessed- binged the series then the audio book within 48 hours.

[@Georgiesreading]

I think you have convinced me to read "normal people" when that book was not even in the back of my mind. ✨ I love your enthusiasm for it.

[@ajmacconville1]

Dear Leena. You are brilliant. I could listen to you forever. Keep going.

[@CJC-eq2pt]

I’ve had actually had fringe since August, but recently decided to grow them out, but I did have to hold myself back from trimming them again. Absolutely loved this show.

[@elizabethneill3825]

Leena Norms, I loved this. I loved the novel, but had SO MANY QUESTIONS about everything, many of which you answered. Also loved the defence of Normal People, which it richly deserved. Leena Norms, this is so fantastic!

[@Carolll9]

The Before series are my favorite and I also loved Normal People. In my head you and I are best friends Leena. Can’t wait to watch the series knowing you enjoyed it. I was afraid it wasn’t going to live up to my high expectations.

[@EmeliaWithAnE97]

When I say that I finished reading it for the first time approximately ten minutes ago, that is no exaggeration. It was wonderful, yet I feel unsettled by it. I cannot say I *loved* the story, I don't know why, because at the same time I did. These characters are so much greater than the sum of their parts and Rooney's ability to make me feel like I've just read/never read the novel (because it feels like these narratives have just always been a part of my life?!?!?!) is what makes her amazing. I feel empty, my heart physically hurts a little and I feel numb. I just want to scoop them up and give them a both a huge hug and promise them that everything will be okay... eventually. I also want to read it again, right now. It gave me a similar feeling to reading call me by your name and maybe what I should really do is listen to Sufjan Stevens and cry. But yeah. Normal People is fucking great. And boy, does Rooney know how to write a killer final line.

[@Maya09950]

I loved normal people. I really enjoyed the book for many reason and most of which you mentioned ! i did relate to Marianne in the sense that I was also bullied and ridiculed at school (but deffo not the rich part) how you kind of without meaning to bring some of those feelings into early adult life. I mainly really enjoyed it because it shows it doesn’t really matter what background you come from everyone has struggles in different ways. I just loved reading how they both grew as people and I particularly enjoyed Connell’s progression/growth. Intrigued by the TV show

[@melaniemccabe4886]

I absolutely loved this book. I saw so, so much of myself in it, and felt liberated by that. This is a wonderful video, as per usual.

[@danilp9097]

This was just the best, loved this video with all the side tracked bits 😊

[@pippivanommen8290]

Thank you for the fringe disclaimer - I needed it...