Plot Summary

Human Capital

Stephen Amidon
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Human Capital

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2004

Book Brief

Stephen Amidon

Human Capital

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

385

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Connecticut • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Human Capital by Stephen Amidon follows three intertwined families in an affluent Connecticut suburb as they grapple with financial struggles and moral dilemmas at the turn of the 21st century. Drew Hagel, a real estate agent in debt; Carrie Manning, a dissatisfied wealthy wife; and David Warfield, a small-time drug dealer, face personal and ethical crises that reveal the impact of greed, economic downfall, and societal expectations on their lives. Details include affluence, deceit, addiction, financial instability, and the impact of the September 11 attacks.

Dark

Mysterious

Gritty

Melancholic

Suspenseful

Reviews & Readership

3.9

501 ratings

66%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Stephen Amidon’s Human Capital is praised for its incisive portrayal of suburban life and economic disparity, highlighting characters’ struggles and moral compromises. However, some critics find its pacing uneven and certain plot points implausible. Overall, the novel is acknowledged for its acute social commentary and complex, relatable characters.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Human Capital?

Readers who enjoy Human Capital by Stephen Amidon are likely drawn to contemporary dramas exploring the intersections of personal ambition, financial woes, and moral dilemmas. Fans of Tom Perrotta’s Little Children or Jonathan Franzen’s The Corrections will appreciate the complex characters and societal critiques in Amidon's narrative.

3.9

501 ratings

66%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

385

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Connecticut • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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