The Vast Fields of Ordinary
The Vast Fields of Ordinary
Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
Iowa • 2000s
2009
YA
14+ years
HL730L
Super Short Summary
The Vast Fields of Ordinary by Nick Burd follows Dade Hamilton, an eighteen-year-old closeted gay teenager, as he navigates a tumultuous summer after high school graduation. He is torn between a secretive relationship with a football player and a new romance with a drug dealer, Alex. Alongside dealing with his parents' troubled marriage, Dade befriends Lucy, an outspoken lesbian, and ultimately strives for self-acceptance.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Emotional
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
10,940 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Vast Fields of Ordinary by Nick Burd has been praised for its authentic portrayal of teenage angst and LGBTQ+ themes, with readers appreciating its depth and emotional resonance. Some critiques highlight a slow pace and predictability in the plot. Overall, it's celebrated for its honest and introspective storytelling, though it may not surprise all readers.
Who Should Read The Vast Fields of Ordinary?
Readers who would enjoy The Vast Fields of Ordinary by Nick Burd are typically young adults who appreciate coming-of-age stories with LGBTQ+ themes. Fans of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz or Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli will find this novel compelling and relatable.
10,940 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Vast Fields of Ordinary received the Stonewall Book Award in 2010, an honor given by the American Library Association for exceptional works related to the LGBTQ+ experience.
The novel was Nick Burd's debut, and it garnered critical acclaim for its honest depiction of teenage life and identity search.
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The Vast Fields of Ordinary was featured in several publications' "best of" lists for young adult literature due to its authentic narrative voice and relatable themes.
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320
Novel • Fiction
Iowa • 2000s
2009
YA
14+ years
HL730L
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