57 pages • 1 hour read
Birnam Wood
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Book Brief
432
Novel • Fiction
New Zealand • Contemporary
2023
Farrar, Straus and Giroux
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Birnam Wood by Eleanor Catton follows Mira Bunting, the founder of a guerrilla gardening group called Birnam Wood, as they unknowingly collaborate with Robert Lemoine, an American billionaire secretly mining minerals in New Zealand and planning to build a bunker. The group becomes entangled in Lemoine's sinister motives, leading to confrontations and moral dilemmas about activism and trust amidst an escalating, destructive plot. This book contains scenes of graphic violence.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Challenging
Dark
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
48,508 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Eleanor Catton's Birnam Wood has garnered praise for its intricate plot and sharp social commentary. Readers appreciate the complex characters and articulate prose. However, some critiques highlight pacing issues and a dense narrative that may not appeal to all. Overall, it's a compelling read for those who enjoy thought-provoking fiction with a political edge.
Who Should Read Birnam Wood?
Readers who relish Birnam Wood by Eleanor Catton will likely enjoy complex narratives blending social issues with psychological depth. Fans of Barbara Kingsolver's Flight Behavior or Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale will appreciate Catton's intricate storytelling and sharp socio-political commentary.
48,508 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Shelley Noakes
Shelley Noakes
Initially seems like Mira’s sidekick, but her actions and ambitions become central to the plot. She wrestles with ethical dilemmas in her quest for power.
Tony Gallo
Tony Gallo
A founding member of Birnam Wood with a background in politics and philosophy. His focus on justice and lack of compromise get him into challenging situations.
Robert Lemoine
Robert Lemoine
An older billionaire antagonist known for his manipulation and use of information for personal gain. His presence has a significant impact on the dynamics within Birnam Wood.
Sir Owen Darvish
Sir Owen Darvish
A businessman who gained wealth from pest control and inherited land. He is self-deprecating but becomes caught up in ambitious pursuits that alter his path.
Lady Jill Darvish
Lady Jill Darvish
Inherits a farm and is described as “good people,” with multiple successful careers. Her intuition plays a vital role in the unfolding events.
432
Novel • Fiction
New Zealand • Contemporary
2023
Farrar, Straus and Giroux
Adult
18+ years
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