The Return to Normalcy by Alice Duer Miller is a novel that explores the themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning in post-World War I America. The story follows the character of John Foster, a young man who returns from the war with a shattered sense of self and a desire to reconnect with his past and his community. Through his journey, Miller examines the complexities of identity formation and the ways in which individuals navigate their place in society after experiencing trauma and disruption. The novel is notable for its exploration of the "lost generation" of veterans and their struggles to adjust to civilian life, as well as its critique of the societal norms and expectations that governed American culture at the time. Overall, The Return to Normalcy is a thought-provoking and timely work that continues to resonate with readers today.
By Alice Duer Miller · First published 1934 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Political Fiction, Drama