What's Eating Gilbert Grape

What's Eating Gilbert Grape

by PETER HEDGES

319 pages· 2014· ISBN 9780795343223
About
Adapted into the classic 1993 film starring Johnny Depp as Gilbert and Leonardo DiCaprio in his Academy Award nominated role as Arnie, What's Eating Gilbert Grape is the touching and entertaining story of an unusual family that rises up to do the astonishing Gilbert Grape is a 24-year-old grocery store clerk stuck in Endora, Iowa, where the population is 1,091 and shrinking. After the suicide of Gilbert's father, his family never recovered. Once the town beauty queen, Gilbert's mother is morbidly obese after seven years of house-bound depression; his younger sister is boy-crazy and God-fearing, while his older sister sacrifices everything for her family. And then there's Arnie, Gilbert's younger brother with special needs. With no one else to care for Arnie, Gilbert becomes his brother's main parent, and all four siblings must tend to the needs of their helpless, grieving mother. So Gilbert is in a rut until an enchanting new girl arrives in town. His family gathers for Arnie's 18th birthday and Becky, the mysterious and lovely newcomer, breathes new life into Gilbert's world. But can one person really change Gilbert, or his attitudes about his family and Endora? Rich with memorable characters, biting frustration, and family redemption, What's Eating Gilbert Grape can't be missed.

Discuss What's Eating Gilbert Grape with other readers

Join or start a book club for What's Eating Gilbert Grape on Readfeed. Live chat, shared reading progress, and AI discussion questions — free to get started.

Frequently asked questions

How do I join a book club for What's Eating Gilbert Grape?

Sign up free on Readfeed, then browse public clubs or start your own club with What's Eating Gilbert Grape as the current read. Invite friends with a share link and discuss together with live chat and AI discussion questions.

Can I discuss What's Eating Gilbert Grape with other readers online?

Yes. Readfeed book clubs let you chat live, share progress, and join discussions about What's Eating Gilbert Grape with readers worldwide — whether your club is virtual, in-person, or hybrid.

Is Readfeed free?

Yes. Creating an account and joining book clubs is free. Sign up to find readers who love the same books and start discussing today.