How to Be a Normal Person

03 · Reader evidence

What the evidence says

What readers repeatedly liked

• Humorous. The reviewer found the book hilarious, citing the website Gus uses for normalcy advice and repeated hipster descriptions as comedy highlights; Reviewer highlights unbelievably hilarious scenes throughout the story; The cable company and internet setup scenes are described as absolutely hilarious. Supported by 5 sources (source 1121, source 1123, source 1125, source 18173, source 18692).
• Likable Lead. Gus is described as a perfect, endearing lead whose quirks and aversion to social situations make him lovable; Reviewer loved Gus throughout the story and cheered him on his journey; The reviewer loves both Gus and Casey, relating strongly to them and finding Gus a caring, kind-hearted soul. Supported by 4 sources (source 1121, source 1123, source 1125, source 17923).
• Low Heat. The reviewer notes there is no sex in the book but emphasizes it is still deeply romantic, possibly even more so because of the absence of sex; Reviewer notes there is no sex in the story but says there was no need for it and they got their steamy fix in other ways; Reviewer notes Casey’s asexuality was not addressed a lot, which they found less satisfying, though they still felt the author handled it well for his style. Supported by 4 sources (source 1121, source 1123, source 1125, source 18173).
• Emotional. The story is touching and moving, with memory scenes of Gus’s father bringing tears to the reviewer’s eyes; Reviewer praises the book as a perfect balanced mix of emotional parts and hilarious scenes; The reviewer was unexpectedly emotional, especially during flashback scenes involving Gus and his father. Supported by 3 sources (source 1121, source 1123, source 1125).
• Tender. Pastor Tommy’s memory scenes are described as beautifully heartwarming and moving; Reviewer describes the book as sweet and says the characters gave a warm, needed sensation; The book is described as being about love, friendship, company, and internal acceptance, full of pure love. Supported by 3 sources (source 1121, source 1123, source 17923).
• Character Growth. Gus learns about himself, heals after his father’s death, and finds happiness while trying to change for Casey; Gus’s journey involves finding the courage to accept the person he wants to be, changing himself before realizing he doesn’t need to. Supported by 2 sources (source 1121, source 1125).
• Easy Comfort Read. The reviewer loved the book intensely, immediately re-read passages, and declared it would be their favorite Klune book even if they had read others; The reviewer loves the book a lot, relates personally to the characters, and feels validated by the ace representation. Supported by 2 sources (source 1121, source 1125).
• Witty Writing. The reviewer highlights the book’s humor and wit, noting repeated comedic descriptions and hilarious scenarios that prompted re-reading of passages; The reviewer finds the story and characters lovable, with both heartbreaking and hilarious scenes throughout. Supported by 2 sources (source 1121, source 1125).
• Cozy. Reader describes the book as a safe space and pure love, about love, friendship, and internal acceptance; The book is described as heart warming and very wholesome. Supported by 2 sources (source 17923, source 18173).

What readers repeatedly flagged

• Grief. Gus is dealing with the devastating loss of his father, which is a central emotional thread in the story; Gus’s father has passed away before the story begins, and flashback scenes are emotionally heavy. Supported by 2 sources (source 1121, source 1125).

Where reader reactions differ

• Low Heat. The reviewer notes there is no sex in the book but emphasizes it is still deeply romantic, possibly even more so because of the absence of sex; Reviewer notes there is no sex in the story but says there was no need for it and they got their steamy fix in other ways; Reviewer notes Casey’s asexuality was not addressed a lot, which they found less satisfying, though they still felt the author handled it well for his style. Supported by 4 sources (source 1121, source 1123, source 1125, source 18173).

Individual observations

• Strong Narration. The audiobook narrator Jamie Clayton does a fantastic job.
• Complex Characters. Reviewer praises the cast as unique, lovable, smart-mouthed, funny, supportive, and perfect in their imperfections, feeling like main characters rather than secondary.
• Satisfying Ending. Reader calls it their favorite ending of any TJ Klune book, enjoying the tease of an intentionally withheld answer.
• Beginner Friendly. Reviewer suggests the book may be the right choice for someone approaching this author for the first time.
• Explicit Comparison. Reader finds the book similar to the Green Creek series, citing voyeuristic side characters watching the romance develop.
• Slow Paced. The reviewer finds the beginning slower paced as it establishes Gus’s daily routine, but still finds it charming.
• Uneven Pacing. The reviewer feels some internet advice articles go on too long and distract from the main story.
• Banter. The book features witty banter as part of the hipster subculture description and overall comedic tone.
• Emotional Intimacy. Gus and Casey connect despite intimacy being difficult for both for different reasons, and their relationship is described as swoon-worthy.
• Found Family. The book features a found family theme with a cast of distinct, lovable supporting characters.

Reader sources

1. thenovelapproachreviews.com – Independent review
2. scatteredthoughtsandroguewords.com – Independent review
3. writingbookishnotes.wordpress.com – Independent review
4. Reddit discussion
5. Reddit discussion
6. Reddit discussion