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240
Novella • Fiction
Montana • 1920s
1976
Adult
18+ years
1160L
A River Runs through It is a semi-autobiographical novella by Norman Maclean, set primarily in the summer of 1937, depicting the lives of Norman and his younger brother Paul, the sons of a Scottish Presbyterian minister in Montana. The story interweaves family history, fly fishing, and philosophy, culminating in a tragic loss while exploring themes of love, connection, and the natural world's healing power. The novella involves situations related to alcoholism, gambling, and violence.
Contemplative
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Melancholic
Emotional
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Norman Maclean's A River Runs Through It is lauded for its lyrical prose and profound exploration of family and nature. Critics praise its vivid descriptions and emotional depth, though some find its pacing slow. The autobiographical novella's introspective narrative offers a poignant reflection on life’s complexities, appealing to readers who appreciate meditative literature.
A reader who would enjoy A River Runs Through It by Norman Maclean likely appreciates lyrical prose and themes of nature, family, and introspection. Fans of Hemingway's The Old Man and the Sea or Thoreau's Walden will find similar meditative qualities and a deep connection to the natural world.
31,338 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Paul Maclean
Norman's younger brother, known for his exceptional fly fishing skills and his role as a newspaper journalist, whose spirited nature often leads to dangerous behavior.
Reverend Maclean
A Presbyterian minister and father of Norman and Paul, who teaches his sons the spiritual significance of nature and fly fishing, emphasizing family bonds and respect for nature.
Mrs. Maclean
Norman and Paul's mother, who manages her household duties faithfully and supports her family with quiet strength and resilience.
Jessie Maclean
Norman’s wife, who grapples with family challenges and supports Norman as they both learn to navigate the limits of helping troubled loved ones.
Neal
Jessie's brother, who spends the summer of 1937 in Montana and struggles with alcohol, creating tension during family gatherings and fishing trips.
Old Rawhide
A woman who provides comic relief in the story, joining Neal in his escapades and inadvertently causing disruption during a fishing expedition.
240
Novella • Fiction
Montana • 1920s
1976
Adult
18+ years
1160L
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