Plot Summary

Martin Dressler: The Tale of an American Dreamer

Steven Millhauser
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Martin Dressler: The Tale of an American Dreamer

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1996

Book Brief

Steven Millhauser

Martin Dressler: The Tale of an American Dreamer

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1996
Book Details
Pages

293

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1890s

Publication Year

1996

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Martin Dressler: The Tale of an American Dreamer by Steven Millhauser follows Martin Dressler's journey from working as a bellboy in New York City to becoming a prominent hotel magnate at the turn of the twentieth century, charting his ambitious rise and eventual downfall as he chases grandiose dreams beyond reality's constraints. There are themes of financial ruin and deteriorating relationships.

Mysterious

Fantastical

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

3.7

10,668 ratings

54%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Martin Dressler: The Tale of an American Dreamer by Steven Millhauser is lauded for its imaginative and vivid prose, creating an engrossing portrait of ambition in turn-of-the-century America. However, some critics find the narrative occasionally lacks depth in character development. Overall, it's a richly detailed exploration of the American Dream with both enchanting and challenging elements.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Martin Dressler: The Tale of an American Dreamer?

Readers who savor rich, atmospheric narratives set in turn-of-the-century America will be captivated by Steven Millhauser's Martin Dressler: The Tale of an American Dreamer. Fans of E.L. Doctorow's Ragtime or Caleb Carr's The Alienist will appreciate its intricate exploration of ambition and innovation in a rapidly changing world.

3.7

10,668 ratings

54%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

293

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1890s

Publication Year

1996

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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