Plot Summary

Regeneration

Pat Barker
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Regeneration

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1991

Book Brief

Pat Barker

Regeneration

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1991
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Scotland • 1910s

Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

770L

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Super Short Summary

Regeneration by Pat Barker follows poet Siegfried Sassoon, who is treated for shell shock at an army hospital after declaring himself a conscientious objector during World War I. At the hospital, psychiatrist W.H.R. Rivers and Sassoon navigate the ethical and emotional complexities of returning soldiers to combat, while other patients grapple with their own wartime traumas. Sensitive topics include graphic depictions of war and trauma.

Dark

Challenging

Contemplative

Emotional

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.1

33,998 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Regeneration by Pat Barker is widely praised for its compelling exploration of World War I's psychological impact, blending historical fiction with deeply human narratives. While the vivid characterizations and emotional depth have been lauded, some readers found the pacing slow. Overall, the novel is celebrated for its poignant and thought-provoking portrayal of trauma.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Regeneration?

Readers who appreciate the psychological depth and historical context in All Quiet on the Western Front and The Things They Carried will be captivated by Regeneration by Pat Barker. This novel's profound exploration of World War I trauma and the human condition will appeal to fans of richly detailed, character-driven historical fiction.

4.1

33,998 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Regeneration by Pat Barker is the first book in a trilogy that examines the experiences of British army officers being treated for shell shock during World War I, blending historical figures with fictional characters.

The book was inspired by the real-life experiences of war poet Siegfried Sassoon and his interactions with psychiatrist Dr. W.H.R. Rivers at Craiglockhart War Hospital in Scotland.

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Regeneration was shortlisted for the prestigious Booker Prize in 1991, which helped Pat Barker gain international recognition as an author.

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Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Scotland • 1910s

Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

770L

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