48 pages • 1 hour read
Piranesi
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Book Brief
249
Novel • Fiction
Infinite House • Timeless Realm
2020
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Piranesi by Susanna Clarke is an epistolary fantasy novel narrated through first-person journal entries by Matthew Rose Sorensen, also known as Piranesi, who is trapped in a labyrinthine House with grand halls and seas, only remembering this world. He aids another inhabitant, the Other, who seeks arcane knowledge, leading to a journey of self-discovery, identity fragmentation, and eventual partial re-integration into modern society.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Serene
Bittersweet
Fantastical
Reviews & Readership
352,279 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Susanna Clarke's Piranesi captivates with its enchanting prose and unique narrative, creating a richly imaginative world that feels both vast and intimate. Some readers found the plot slow and overly enigmatic, but most appreciated its originality and poetic quality. Clarke's talent for world-building and philosophical reflection is widely praised, making this a thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Piranesi?
Piranesi by Susanna Clarke captivates readers who appreciate intricate world-building and intellectual puzzles. Fans of Borges' metaphysical explorations and Neil Gaiman's mythic storytelling in American Gods will find this novel compelling. Its blend of fantasy, mystery, and philosophical depth appeals to those who enjoy profound and enigmatic narratives.
352,279 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
249
Novel • Fiction
Infinite House • Timeless Realm
2020
Adult
18+ years
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