The Cider House Rules by John Irving (1985). Summary of the book.

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The Cider House Rules by John Irving (1985)

Summary of the Book

The Cider House Rules is a novel by American author John Irving, first published in 1985. It tells the story of Homer Wells, an orphan who was raised in an orphanage, and his journey to adulthood. The novel follows Homer as he learns the “rules” of the orphanage, makes his own way in the world, and ultimately finds his own place in it. Along the way, he discovers his own morality and the importance of family.

The novel is set in Maine during the early twentieth century, and examines a variety of issues, including abortion, racial prejudice, and the role of women in society. Through Homer’s journey, Irving presents a moral exploration of the human condition, and the importance of making choices and being responsible for those choices.

Main Details About the Plot and Teachings of the Book

The Cider House Rules follows Homer Wells, an orphan who was raised in an orphanage in rural Maine during the early twentieth century. He is taken in by Dr. Wilbur Larch, the orphanage’s physician and director, who teaches Homer the “rules” of the orphanage and life in general. Larch also teaches Homer about medicine and encourages him to pursue a medical career.

Homer eventually leaves the orphanage and embarks on his own journey. He takes a job on a nearby apple farm and learns about the struggles of the working class. He eventually meets and falls in love with Candy Kendall, a young woman from a wealthy family. He also meets Wally Worthington, a young man from the same family, and the two become close friends.

Homer eventually returns to the orphanage and takes over as director when Larch dies. He continues to practice medicine and helps the women of the town, who come to him for abortions. His decision to perform abortions puts him at odds with the local law, and he must make a difficult choice between following the law and following his conscience.

Throughout the novel, Irving examines the importance of morality and the consequences of making choices. He also explores the themes of family, identity, and class.

Main Curiosities and Interesting Facts About the Book

  • The Cider House Rules was adapted into a 1999 film directed by Lasse Hallström and starring Tobey Maguire, Charlize Theron, and Michael Caine.
  • The novel was awarded the U.S. National Book Critics Circle Award for Fiction in 1986.
  • The novel was also a finalist for the 1986 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.
  • The novel was adapted into a stage play in 2007.
  • The novel has been translated into more than 25 languages.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the book The Cider House Rules about?

The Cider House Rules is a novel by American author John Irving, first published in 1985. It tells the story of Homer Wells, an orphan who was raised in an orphanage, and his journey to adulthood. The novel follows Homer as he learns the “rules” of the orphanage, makes his own way in the world, and ultimately finds his own place in it. Along the way, he discovers his own morality and the importance of family.

Who wrote The Cider House Rules?

The Cider House Rules was written by American author John Irving, first published in 1985.

What awards did The Cider House Rules win?

The Cider House Rules won the U.S. National Book Critics Circle Award for Fiction in 1986, and was a finalist for the 1986 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.

Has The Cider House Rules been adapted into a movie?

The Cider House Rules was adapted into a 1999 film directed by Lasse Hallström and starring Tobey Maguire, Charlize Theron, and Michael Caine.

Has The Cider House Rules been adapted into a stage play?

The Cider House Rules was adapted into a stage play in 2007.

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