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Joseph Kesselring

Arsenic and Old Lace

Joseph KesselringFiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1941

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Book Brief

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Joseph Kesselring

Arsenic and Old Lace

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1941
Book Details
Pages

96

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Brooklyn, New York • 1940s

Publication Year

1941

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12+ years

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Super Short Summary

Arsenic and Old Lace centers on Mortimer Brewster, a theater critic who discovers that his aunts, Abby and Martha, have been poisoning lonely old men and burying them in their cellar with the help of their nephew Teddy, who believes he is President Theodore Roosevelt. Mortimer's criminal brother Jonathan returns home with a plastic surgeon accomplice, complicating the situation further.

Humorous

Dark

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Reviews & Readership

4.4

24,428 ratings

77%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Joseph Kesselring's Arsenic and Old Lace is widely praised for its dark humor, witty dialogue, and strong characterizations. The play's blend of comedy and macabre elements has resonated with audiences, though some critics note that its plot twists can be predictable. Overall, its unique charm and entertaining storyline make it a memorable piece of theater.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Arsenic and Old Lace?

Fans of dark comedy and classic theater will find Arsenic and Old Lace by Joseph Kesselring delightfully entertaining. Similar to those who enjoy The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde, readers who appreciate witty dialogue, eccentric characters, and macabre humor will be thoroughly captivated.

4.4

24,428 ratings

77%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

96

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Brooklyn, New York • 1940s

Publication Year

1941

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12+ years

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