EVERYONE Has Read This but Me - The Catch-Up Book Club discussion

The Modern selection for June 2026 is Intermezzo by Sally Rooney, nominated by Sandra.

This discussion will be full of SPOILERS.

❧ What stood out to you?
❧ Did you have a favorite quote, or favorite moment?
❧ Did the alternating-viewpoint structure work for you? Did you find yourself more drawn to one brother’s narrative over the other’s—or did you perhaps prefer Margaret’s?
❧ What questions were you left with?

I found this book very introspective providing a nice introduction to the psychology of grief and how many become different people while committing multiple fallacies seeking renewed happiness during our transformation. However, it opens with a graphic sex scene and includes several throughout the storyline.

The story is also written in stream of consciousness style without directly identifying the speakers. In addition, it is written by a foreign author using some language some may find unfamiliar and the storyline alternates between the perspective of two main characters.

All of this can take some getting used to before you are able to envelope yourself in the story.

Personally, sex scenes are not my cup of tea though I do enjoy the psychological principles of the storyline. I found this a rewarding read though I am hoping a sequel would change the ending to the story. I was able to finish the book at twice my normal rate.

The writing style reminded me a bit of Artemis Fowl and inspired me to play chess again. I would like to use the Evan's Gambit move in a game. I guess we know which brother I prefer.