Plot Summary

On Borrowed Time

Lawrence Edward Watkin
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On Borrowed Time

Fiction | Novella | Adult | Published in 1938

Book Brief

Lawrence Edward Watkin

On Borrowed Time

Fiction | Novella | Adult | Published in 1938
Book Details
Pages

71

Format

Novella • Fiction

Setting

Small American Town • 1930s

Publication Year

1938

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12+ years

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Super Short Summary

On Borrowed Time by Lawrence Edward Watkin tells the story of Gramps, who captures Death in his apple tree to protect his grandson, Pud, after the death of Pud's parents. Gramps's actions lead to a series of complications, as nobody can die while Death is trapped. The story explores themes of mortality, family, and the ethical implications of controlling life and death. The book includes themes of death, illness, and emotional distress.

Contemplative

Emotional

Bittersweet

Mysterious

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.1

16 ratings

81%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Reviews of Lawrence Edward Watkin's On Borrowed Time are mixed. Critics praise its compelling narrative and philosophical exploration of mortality, though some feel it overly sentimental. The characters are well-developed and engaging, but a few readers find the plot occasionally predictable. Overall, it's a thoughtful, if somewhat uneven, exploration of life's temporary nature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read On Borrowed Time?

A reader who enjoys On Borrowed Time by Lawrence Edward Watkin is likely captivated by whimsical, yet thought-provoking tales that explore themes of life, death, and the supernatural. Fans of It's a Wonderful Life or Our Town would find similar emotional depth and moral inquiry in Watkin's work.

4.1

16 ratings

81%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

71

Format

Novella • Fiction

Setting

Small American Town • 1930s

Publication Year

1938

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12+ years

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