10 Things You Should Know About Atonement by Ian McEwan

1. Atonement is suitable for Young Adults and beyond, with language and sexual references.
    
2. This is not just a boy meets girl, boy loses girl love story.  If you’re looking for a Nicholas Sparks kind of romance, then read a Nicholas Sparks book. 
    
3. This is a haunting story that will stick with you long after you’ve read the last page.  Really think about the impact the story had on you. 
    
4. The setting for Atonement is pre and during World War II Europe, but the main focus of the story is the intimate relationships within an upper-class family in Britain.

5. Don’t give up on this novel– the first few chapters are a bit tough to get through, but I promise the majority of the book will be worth it.

6. Try not to judge the main character, Briony too quickly, really allow yourself to be open to what the story has to offer, (it will make for a much more enjoyable read!)

7. Remember how important class and society was in twentieth century Europe while reading this book.  It will to reiterate how groundbreaking this love story is.
    
8. The point of view can be a little confusing at first.  Make sure to read slowly and go back over parts where you are thinking to yourself, "Wait, why did that just happen?"

9. Just as you had to remember in To Kill A Mockingbird, that six-year-old Scout Finch was telling the story,  the beginning of Atonement is seen through the eyes of 13-year-old Briony.  Remember that while you’re reading.

10. Even if you’ve seen the movie, read the book.  It answers the questions you had in the movie that start with: "But why did she do that…?"  And if you haven’t seen the movie yet, rent it after you’ve read the book.  It does a great job of staying faithful to the novel.

Happy reading!