Plot Summary

Pnin

Vladimir Nabokov
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Pnin

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1957

Book Brief

Vladimir Nabokov

Pnin

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1957
Book Details
Pages

143

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Waindell College • 1950s

Publication Year

1957

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Pnin by Vladimir Nabokov follows Timofey Pavlovich Pnin, a Russian-born assistant professor at Waindell College, navigating life as an émigré in the United States. Misadventures, poignant memories, and interactions with quirky characters reflect his struggle with displacement and loneliness, culminating in a significant job dilemma and a final departure from Waindell.

Humorous

Melancholic

Nostalgic

Bittersweet

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.1

26,937 ratings

69%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Pnin by Vladimir Nabokov tells the story of a Russian émigré navigating American academia, blending wit and pathos. Critics laud Nabokov's masterful prose and character depth, though some find the narrative structure disjointed. The novel succeeds in its poignant portrayal of displacement and human frailty, despite occasional density in language.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Pnin?

Readers who appreciate Pnin by Vladimir Nabokov often enjoy character-driven narratives with rich, lyrical prose and a touch of humor. Fans of Pale Fire by Nabokov or A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole may find Pnin similarly engaging for its wit and unique character study.

4.1

26,937 ratings

69%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

143

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Waindell College • 1950s

Publication Year

1957

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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