Jeffrey Eugenides' The Virgin Suicides captivates with its haunting prose and evocative atmosphere, immersing readers in a suburban tragedy told through the eyes of a group of boys. Critics praise its lyrical style and exploration of youth and obsession. However, some find the narrative's detachment and discomforting subject matter challenging. Nevertheless, it remains a poignant, memorable read.

A reader of The Virgin Suicides by Jeffrey Eugenides would appreciate melancholic and lyrical prose, exploring themes of adolescence, suburban life, and tragedy. Fans of The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath or White Oleander by Janet Fitch would find similar depth and introspection in this haunting, character-driven narrative.

In the 1970s, a group of men recalls their teenage years when they were infatuated with the five Lisbon sisters, who lived a restrictive life due to their religious mother and passive father, and who all eventually died by suicide. The boys, who idolized the sisters, witnessed their struggles, their isolation from the community, and their eventual tragic ends, leaving the reasons for their actions shrouded in mystery.

Melancholic / Mysterious / Nostalgic / Bittersweet / Dark

- The Virgin Suicides was the debut novel of Jeffrey Eugenides and was published in 1993.
- The story is set in a Detroit suburb that mirrors the real-life Grosse Pointe neighborhood where Eugenides grew up.
- In 1999, Sofia Coppola adapted the novel into a critically acclaimed film of the same name, featuring Kirsten Dunst in a leading role.

**The Boys**  
A group of neighborhood boys act as the collective narrators, recalling their memories of the Lisbon sisters from their teenage years and their infatuation with them.

**Mr. Lisbon**  
The Lisbon sisters' father, depicted as a friendly and boyish figure, who increasingly isolates himself after personal family tragedies.

**Mrs. Lisbon**  
The mother of the Lisbon sisters, portrayed as strict and controlling, particularly regarding her daughters' lives and interactions with the outside world.

**Cecilia Lisbon**  
The youngest of the Lisbon sisters, whose unique outlook is noted early in the narrative, setting the stage for the events that follow.

**Lux Lisbon**  
Known for her alluring presence and rebellious streak, Lux is the second youngest of the sisters and draws significant attention from the neighborhood boys.

**Therese Lisbon**  
The eldest Lisbon sister, known for her intelligence and future aspirations during the course of the story.

**Mary Lisbon**  
Noted for her proper and reserved demeanor, Mary is one of the middle Lisbon sisters.

**Bonnie Lisbon**  
Characterized by her timidity, Bonnie is one of the elder sisters and is notable for the small but personal moments she shares with Lux.

**Trip Fontaine**  
A high school boy known for his charisma and romantic feelings towards Lux, playing a pivotal role in a key event involving the Lisbon sisters.

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