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Zadie Smith's "On Beauty" is widely lauded for its exceptional character development, with many reviewers noting that the individuals feel remarkably real and complex, eliciting both empathy and critique. The novel is celebrated for its sharp wit, engaging prose, and vivid descriptions, often making for a page-turning experience. Readers appreciated Smith's masterful handling of diverse and challenging themes, including race, politics, class, art, love, and identity in a globalized world. The book's insightful exploration of multiculturalism and academia, coupled with its clever homage to E.M. Forster's "Howards End," is frequently highlighted as a testament to Smith's originality and literary talent.

Despite its strengths, "On Beauty" received criticism regarding its pacing and plot. Some reviewers found the narrative to be plodding, overlong, or at times abrupt, with certain plot points feeling contrived or unbelievable. A common complaint centered on the dialogue, which some felt was unnatural or inauthentic, particularly in its portrayal of American regional and cultural dialects. Additionally, while many lauded the characters, others found them irritating, unlikable, or underdeveloped, especially those who appeared only briefly. Some readers also felt that the central theme of beauty was underdeveloped or shallow, and that the novel's intellectual density occasionally overshadowed its narrative flow, leading to lengthy descriptive passages over dialogue.

Ultimately, "On Beauty" is an ambitious and intellectually stimulating novel that offers a nuanced and often satirical look at contemporary societal issues through the lens of two colliding families. It is a polarizing work, celebrated for its depth and wit, but also critiqued for its narrative execution and character portrayal by some. The book is best suited for readers who appreciate complex, character-driven literary fiction that delves deeply into themes of identity, race, class, and the intricacies of human relationships within an academic setting. It appeals to those who enjoy social commentary and satire, and who are prepared for a thought-provoking read that may challenge their perspectives rather than provide straightforward entertainment.