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The Remains of the Day
By: Kazuo Ishiguro
My Rating: FIVE out of FIVE Emotional Stars
Best For: 16 and up

The Remains of the Day: A Content Aware Book Review

Kazuo Ishiguro’s The Remains of the Day is a masterpiece of understated emotion and quiet devastation. This 1989 Booker Prize winner (and, oh yeah, Ishiguro won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2017!) tells the story of Stevens, a butler who dedicated his life to serving Lord Darlington at Darlington Hall. As Stevens embarks on a road trip through the English countryside, he reflects on his past, his choices, and the life he might have had.

What’s it about?
Stevens, the quintessential English butler, is a man of duty and decorum. He takes immense pride in his profession, striving for perfection in every aspect of his service. But as he journeys through his memories, we see the cracks in his carefully constructed facade. He recalls his interactions with Miss Kenton, the former housekeeper, and his unwavering loyalty to Lord Darlington, a man whose actions and affiliations raise troubling questions.

What did I love?
The Unreliable Narrator: Stevens is a masterclass in unreliable narration. He filters his memories through the lens of his own rigid worldview, often reinterpreting events to align with his idealized version of the past. This creates a fascinating dynamic where the reader must piece together the truth from Stevens’ carefully curated recollections.
The Heartbreak of Missed Opportunities: The relationship between Stevens and Miss Kenton is a poignant study in missed connections. It’s heartbreaking to witness their unspoken affections, their inability to bridge the gap between their professional roles and their personal desires. By the time Stevens recognizes the depth of his feelings, it’s much, much too late.
The Exploration of Regret and Lost Potential: The Remains of the Day is a profound meditation on the choices we make and the paths not taken. Stevens’ unwavering dedication to his profession, his adherence to a strict code of conduct, ultimately leaves him with a sense of emptiness and regret. He sacrificed personal happiness for the illusion of “dignity,” and the realization of this loss is both profound and deeply moving.

What didn’t I love?
Nothing! This book is a masterpiece of character development and emotional complexity.

Sensitive Content
None: This book is free of violence, strong language, and sexual content. However, it is a nuanced and emotionally complex narrative that may be challenging for younger or less experienced readers.

Should you read it?
If you’re looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read, then The Remains of the Day is an absolute must. It’s a beautifully written and deeply affecting novel that will keep bouncing around your brain even weeks after you’ve finished. I’m anxious to find other books by Kazuo Ishiguro! This dad says The Remains of the Day is appropriate for emotionally mature and sensitive readers 16 and up.

Happy Reading!