Overview

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is a contemporary novel written by English author Mark Haddon, first published in 2003. The narrative is presented from the perspective of Christopher Boone, a 15-year-old boy with an unspecified developmental disorder that is likely on the autism spectrum. The story begins with Christopher discovering the murdered dog of his neighbor. Against the advice of his father, Christopher embarks on an investigation to solve the mystery. As he navigates the challenges of his own condition, the novel unfolds into a compelling exploration of family dynamics and the resilience of the human spirit.

The distinctive narrative style of the novel, which mirrors Christopher’s logical and mathematical thought processes, provides readers with a unique window into his world. Haddon’s novel is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, inviting readers to reconsider their perceptions of normalcy and empathy.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is rooted in the contemporary setting of the early 21st century, reflecting societal attitudes towards individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. Its contemporary relevance lies in its contribution to fostering compassion for those with unique perspectives on the world. The novel was successfully adapted into a stage play in 2012, and has received critical acclaim for its innovative use of technology and storytelling techniques to convey Christopher’s perspective.

 Read the full plot summary, an in-depth analysis of narrator and protagonist Christopher John Francis Boone, and explanations of important quotes from The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.

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