A Death in the Family
A Death in the Family
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1957
Book Brief
310
Novel • Fiction
Tennessee • 1910s
1957
Adult
18+ years
940L
Super Short Summary
A Death in the Family by James Agee is a highly autobiographical novel recounting the sudden death of Jay Follet, a Tennessee man, and the profound impact of this tragedy on his young son, Rufus, his wife, Mary, and their family. As Jay dies in a car accident, the narrative explores the family's grief and struggles with understanding and coping with loss through alternating perspectives, including those of Jay's children and wife.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Emotional
Bittersweet
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
17,715 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
James Agee's A Death in the Family receives acclaim for its poignant portrayal of grief and family dynamics, drawing on lyrical prose and deep emotional resonance. Positively noted for vivid characterizations, some critics find the narrative pacing slow. Overall, it stands as a striking exploration of loss, though its introspective style may not appeal to all readers.
Who Should Read A Death in the Family?
A reader who relishes introspective and emotionally rich narratives like To Kill a Mockingbird or The Catcher in the Rye would enjoy A Death in the Family by James Agee. This audience appreciates profound explorations of family dynamics, loss, and rural American life, drawn with poetic and profound prose.
17,715 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
310
Novel • Fiction
Tennessee • 1910s
1957
Adult
18+ years
940L
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