Excellent book. Donoghue’s novel is a portrayal of the lives of a young woman kidnapped and held captive with her 5 year old son in a stranger’s backyard shed. This book is riveting and very real. Donoghue’s ability to inhabit her characters’ minds is evident in that the story is told from the perspective of the child. For a book that was not overly “action-packed” it is a real page-turner. (submitted by JM)

I read this book and did a project about it in my English reading class, which turned out great. This book was great but the beginning kind of got boring and I do believe it was for the readers to develop what is happening. It also got really confusing, overall it was great and really trilling.

Thank you for all your comments. I have not read the book yet, but I am exited to read it now.

What can I say about this book that numerous other reviewers haven't already said?
I was initially worried about it being written from the perspective of a child because I am a pretty bad reader and get confused and lost easily, but that wasn't the case at all with this book. I couldn't stop reading! It kept me wanting to know more; how is Jack and Ma doing?

I gave this book 4.5 stars because....

*****SPOILERS*****

[ I didn't think it was very realistic after they left Room. I don't think Jack would have coped so well being torn from Ma and sent to Grandma and Steppa's when his mom stayed at the clinic. I also didn't like how the book ended so "fluffy." I don't think reentering society would have been that easy. But, I also know if it was written realistically, it would be an extremely long book. I just feel like it kind of dropped off at the end, unfortunately, a lot of good books do.

This book took me by surprise. I started listening to the story and found myself intrigued. The narrator chosen for the audio was excellent. I thought the story was well written and suspenseful. I would recommend this book even though it is not an easy read.

A powerful story highlighting the unbreakable bond between mother and son. How do you make lemons out of lemonade? Ask Jack, the courageous 5 year old who has lived in a room the size of a garage his entire life and has never been outside. This dynamic duo reminded me of what is really important to share with my children...time.

I don't often re-read books but I did with this one. A work of fiction that is so believable. Emma Donoghue has written a fantastic story about a horrible situation.

I read this book for the first time 5 years ago and it is still my absolute favourite!! Everything about this book is brilliant. There is such a beautiful bond between mother and son, despite the brutal circumstances that they are forced to live with. Child innocence is such a big part of this book, specifically because it is narrated by five-year-old Jack. Very very realistic. Loved it!!!!!!!

Also- the movie is nothing in comparison to this book. The movie disregards a lot of important details and drags on near the end. Would definitely recommend the book instead.

I have never met a book that I have loved more fully from the first word. It is a captivating novel, involving a mother's strength and perseverance, and her son's marvelous ability to make the most out of their situation. Be warned, it is a difficult read, because of the subject matter and the perspective, but well worth it. If you are a fan of different perspectives, or are really interested in how perspectives can influence characterization, this is a book for you. The mind of Jack gives the whole book an imaginative and innocent spin to the novel, balancing the other brutal aspects. And do not worry, there is a happy ending to look forward to.

Dreadful book and very hard to read. Not a book if you want light entertaining reading.