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667
Novel • Fiction
Ethiopia • 1950s
2009
Knopf
Adult
18+ years
Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese follows the lives of twin brothers Marion and Shiva Praise Stone, who are born in Ethiopia to an Indian nun and a British surgeon. The story spans several decades, detailing their upbringing in a Catholic mission hospital in Addis Ababa, their journey into the medical profession, and the political upheavals of Ethiopia.
Emotional
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Inspirational
Melancholic
420,895 ratings
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Abraham Verghese's Cutting for Stone is widely praised for its intricate storytelling, rich characters, and evocative portrayal of Ethiopian culture. Many highlight Verghese's medical expertise, which enhances the novel's authenticity. However, some find its length and detailed medical descriptions overwhelming. Overall, it's a deeply engaging and educational read.
Readers who cherish epic tales of love, medicine, and identity will delight in Cutting for Stone. Fans of Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner and Arundhati Roy’s The God of Small Things will appreciate this novel's rich narrative, intricate character development, and exploration of cultural and political landscapes.
420,895 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Shiva Praise Stone
Shiva is Marion’s twin brother, born shortly after him. He is a mirror image of Marion physically but is intense, withdrawn, and insensitive to others' feelings. He is a dedicated doctor specializing in treating fistulas and is passionate about dance.
Genet
Genet is the daughter of Marion and Shiva's nanny, raised alongside them. She is rebellious and becomes a love interest for Marion. Her actions, including associating with political turmoil, serve as catalysts for significant changes in Marion's life.
Dr. Thomas Stone
Thomas Stone is the birth father of Marion and Shiva, a brilliant British surgeon focused on medicine. He experiences a crisis after his knowledge fails him and eventually becomes an absentee father but makes medical advancements that play a crucial role in the story.
Ghosh (Dr. Abhi Ghosh)
Ghosh is the adoptive father of Marion and Shiva, an internal medicine specialist who also becomes a surgeon. He is Marion’s mentor, known for his optimism and kindness, and encourages Marion to pursue his passion for medicine.
Hema (Dr. Kaplana Hemalatha)
Hema is the obstetrician and gynecologist at Missing Hospital, originally from Madras, India. She raises Marion and Shiva and is a mentor to Shiva. Hema is strong, intelligent, and independent but can be judgmental and unforgiving.
667
Novel • Fiction
Ethiopia • 1950s
2009
Knopf
Adult
18+ years
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