Saturday by Ian McEwan is praised for its meticulous prose and the psychological depth of its protagonist, effectively capturing a single, tense day in modern London. However, some critics find its pacing slow and certain plot points implausible. Overall, it is lauded for its exploration of the impact of global events on personal lives.

Readers who enjoy Saturday by Ian McEwan are typically drawn to introspective and character-driven narratives, often appreciating the existential and moral dilemmas faced by protagonists. Fans of McEwan’s sharp prose may also like Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf and White Teeth by Zadie Smith for their similar deep dives into personal and societal complexities.

Saturday, a novel by Ian McEwan, follows a day in the life of Henry Perowne, a successful neurosurgeon in London, on February 15, 2003, amid anti-war demonstrations and the looming Iraq invasion. Henry's day unfolds with typical activities but takes a dark turn after a traffic accident with an unstable individual, leading to events that threaten his family's safety. Sensitive topics include depictions of violence and a home invasion.

Contemplative / Melancholic / Mysterious / Emotional / Unnerving

- Saturday was published in 2005 and quickly became a bestseller, reflecting its contemporary relevance and the allure of Ian McEwan's writing.
- The novel is structured around a single day in the life of its protagonist, paralleling the narrative styles of classic modernist works like Virginia Woolf's Mrs. Dalloway and James Joyce's Ulysses. 
- Saturday earned McEwan a nomination for the Man Booker Prize, showcasing the widespread critical acclaim for his ability to weave complex themes into his storytelling.

**Henry Perowne**  
A successful London neurosurgeon in his late forties, who relishes routine and rationality. He lives with his wife and son, enjoying a close-knit family life.

**Baxter**  
The novel’s complex antagonist who suffers from Huntington's Disease, leading to unpredictable behavior. He becomes fixated on Henry following a minor car accident.

**Daisy Perowne**  
Henry's daughter, an intelligent and independent young woman with a passion for poetry. She is encouraged by her grandfather and has secured a book deal.

**Rosalind Perowne**  
Henry’s wife, a dedicated lawyer who balances her career with nurturing her family. She supports Henry, showing strength and resilience during the novel's tense moments.

**Theo Perowne**  
Henry’s 18-year-old son, a free spirit who is passionate about music, particularly blues guitar. He is influenced by his grandfather and shares a youthful, artistic energy.

**John Grammaticus**  
Henry’s father-in-law, a renowned poet who impacts his grandchildren’s lives. He is characterized by his intellectual prowess but struggles with alcohol misuse.

Ian McEwan

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Saturday and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Saturday Summary and Study Guide

Background

Saturday Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapter 1 Saturday Chapter 1 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 2 Saturday Chapter 2 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 3 Saturday Chapter 3 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 4 Saturday Chapter 4 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 5 Saturday Chapter 5 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Saturday Character Analysis

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Themes

Saturday Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Saturday Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Saturday Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Saturday Essay Topics

Saturday

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Saturday?

Reading Age

Book Details