41 pages • 1 hour read
Gilead
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Book Brief
247
Novel • Fiction
Iowa • 1950s
2004
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Gilead by Marilynne Robinson is written as a letter from dying Congregationalist minister John Ames to his young son, recounting his life, family memories, and his resolution of an old grievance with his best friend's son, Jack. The novel explores themes of religious faith and relationships between fathers and sons, blending past memories with the present. The narrative emanates John's heartfelt, joyous love of life.
Contemplative
Nostalgic
Melancholic
Serene
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
125,005 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Marilynne Robinson's Gilead is lauded for its profound, contemplative prose and deep exploration of faith, redemption, and human connection. Some readers find the slow pacing and introspective narrative challenging. Overall, it is celebrated for its eloquent style and insightful reflections, though its contemplative nature may not appeal to all.
Who Should Read Gilead?
A reader who enjoys introspective, literary fiction with rich, contemplative prose and theological undertones would appreciate Marilynne Robinson's Gilead. Fans of works like To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee or The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck, which explore deep moral and existential issues, would find this novel engaging.
125,005 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
247
Novel • Fiction
Iowa • 1950s
2004
Adult
18+ years
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