Don't Get Too Close Ordinary People by Judith Guest is a well written novel that takes you through the life of a typical upper class American family. The main character in the book is Conrad Jarret. He is the son of Calvin and Beth Jarret. Conrad also had a deceased brother Buck who was killed in a tragic boating accident. This brings us to the reoccurring theme throughout the book. The lack of intimacy in Conrad's life is portrayed throughout the book. Bucks tragic death has caused Conrad to be weary of close relationships. He trys not to get too close to anyone through the beginning of the story, but as the story progresses he starts to develop closer relationships and h