Sexing the Cherry

Jeanette Winterson
46 pages1-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Adult
Published in 1989

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Book Brief

Jeanette Winterson

Sexing the Cherry

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1989
Book Details
Pages

167

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

•

Magical Realism
Period
Postmodernism
Setting

London • 17th Century

Theme
Conflict

•

Emotions/Behavior: Courage

•

Perseverance
Topic
LGBTQ+
First Publication Year

1989

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Sexing the Cherry by Jeanette Winterson intertwines the lives of a giantess, known as Dog-Woman, and her adopted son, Jordan, set against the backdrop of a tumultuous 17th-century London. The narrative explores their unique relationship and Jordan's fantastical voyages, both real and imagined, delving into themes of time, love, and reality across various timelines and mythical settings. The novel includes descriptions of war, violence, and beheadings.

Fantastical

Mysterious

Contemplative

Adventurous

Humorous

Reviews & Readership

3.8

19,568 ratings

66%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Sexing the Cherry by Jeanette Winterson is praised for its inventive narrative and rich, poetic language, immersing readers in a fantastical blend of history and imagination. However, some find its non-linear structure and surreal elements challenging. Overall, it's a celebrated exploration of gender and identity, appealing to those who enjoy thought-provoking, stylistically bold literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Sexing the Cherry?

Readers who enjoy Sexing the Cherry by Jeanette Winterson are typically fans of magical realism and postmodern narrative techniques. They appreciate rich, inventive language and layered storytelling similar to works like One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez and Beloved by Toni Morrison.

3.8

19,568 ratings

66%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

A giantess and primary narrator known for her immense strength and unconventional lifestyle, she navigates the 17th century with her own moral code while caring for Jordan, whom she found and adopted.

A foundling raised by the Dog-Woman, he is a dreamer and explorer engaged in a quest for identity and knowledge, often reflecting on the nature of time and reality during his voyages.

An idealized figure whom Jordan seeks; she is the youngest of dancing princesses and embodies freedom and self-mastery, running a dancing school that challenges physical limitations.

A historical figure and mentor to Jordan, Tradescant is a royal gardener who introduces Jordan to exploration and discovery, grounding his journey in tangible experiences.

Modern counterparts to Jordan and the Dog-Woman, Nicolas is a naval cadet with dreams of exploration, and the scientist is an ecologist battling corporate pollution, reflecting timeless struggles.

Antagonistic Puritan figures who represent religious hypocrisy, opposing the freedoms embraced by characters like the Dog-Woman and Jordan.

Book Details
Pages

167

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

•

Magical Realism
Period
Postmodernism
Setting

London • 17th Century

Theme
Conflict

•

Emotions/Behavior: Courage

•

Perseverance
Topic
LGBTQ+
First Publication Year

1989

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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