Plot Summary

Loaves and Fishes

Dorothy Day
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Loaves and Fishes

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1936

Book Brief

Dorothy Day

Loaves and Fishes

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1936
Book Details
Pages

221

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

New York City • 1930s

Publication Year

1936

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Loaves and Fishes by Dorothy Day details her journey from bohemianism to Catholic activism, focusing on her work with the Catholic Worker Movement. Alongside Peter Maurin, she established a network of aid for the poor, influenced by religious and anarcho-communist philosophies. The movement faced significant challenges, including maintaining pacifist principles during wartime and addressing moral conflicts within their charitable efforts. Sensitive topics include sexual activity and substance use among aid recipients.

Contemplative

Inspirational

Hopeful

Heartwarming

Informative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

573 ratings

81%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Dorothy Day's Loaves and Fishes is widely praised for its heartfelt account of her involvement in the Catholic Worker Movement, offering inspiring insights into social justice and activism. However, some reviewers note a lack of critical self-reflection and an overly idealistic portrayal of communal living. Overall, it is a compelling and thought-provoking memoir.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Loaves and Fishes?

Readers who value social justice, faith-based activism, and personal memoirs will enjoy Dorothy Day’s Loaves and Fishes. Fans of The Long Loneliness and Pillars of the Earth will appreciate her firsthand account of the Catholic Worker Movement, combining reflective prose with a commitment to societal change.

4.3

573 ratings

81%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

221

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

New York City • 1930s

Publication Year

1936

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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