Super Short Summary

Ordinary People by Judith Guest follows the Jarrett family after two traumatic events: the death of their eldest son, Buck, in a sailing accident, and the younger son, Conrad's, suicide attempt. The story focuses on their struggle to cope with grief and rebuild their lives. Conrad grapples with his emotions, seeking solace in therapy, while his parents, Cal and Beth, navigate their own complex grief and relationship dynamics. The book depicts sensitive topics including suicide, self-harm, and controversial mental health treatments such as electroshock therapy.