
Set in 1986, Eleanor and Park's story is infused with pop culture, comic books, and music from the mid-80s, from punk rock to new wave. When he gives Eleanor a seat on the bus one fateful morning, he sparks an unlikely friendship that turns into pure chemistry. Raised by a Korean mom and an Army vet dad, Park's set apart by his race and his interest in music and comic books.

Park's upbringing is happy and sheltered in comparison, but he's got his own set of issues. This is roses and sunshine compared to Eleanor's home life, though, where her stepdad, Richie, is a violent alcoholic who keeps Eleanor's household in a state of constant terror. Eleanor, new at school, stands out in a crowd: She's got fiery red hair, a curvy body type, and a thing for wearing men's clothing, so from day one, she's targeted by bullies at school and on the bus. This book isn't just the fireworks, rainbows, and violins of first love, though Rainbow Rowell's 2013 Eleanor & Park deals with issues like bullying, discrimination, and domestic violence.

Just like Shakespeare's unlucky R & J, our heroes are destined to be torn apart, but along the way they share something incredible. Their romance happens in the wrong place at the wrong time, but together, Eleanor and Park are anything but wrong. A pair of star-crossed lovers swap cassettes, and try to keep their comic books pristine.Įleanor & Park is the story of two outsiders who fall in love, but if you think you've heard this story before, think again. Two misfits on the bus to school, in fair Omaha where we lay our scene.
