The novel explores the turbulent life of a conventional British family whose idealistic vision of domestic bliss is shattered by the birth of their fifth child. This child is vastly different from his siblings—violent, antisocial, and seemingly unmanageable. His presence brings about a profound transformation in the family dynamics, leading to isolation, fear, and the disintegration of family bonds. The story delves into themes of societal norms, the nature versus nurture debate, and the limits of parental love, as the family grapples with the challenges posed by a child who defies all expectations and the impact he has on everyone around him.

The 4907th greatest book of all time