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Prince of Tides

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1986

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Book Brief

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Pat Conroy

Prince of Tides

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1986
Book Details
Pages

679

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

South Carolina • 1960s

Publication Year

1986

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy, narrated by Tom Wingo, follows the turbulent lives of the Wingo family of Melrose Island, South Carolina, and reveals the deep-seated trauma and abuse they endure. Through therapy sessions with Dr. Susan Lowenstein, Tom confronts his troubled past, intertwining flashbacks and family secrets to seek healing for himself and his sister Savannah, a poet battling severe mental health issues.

Emotional

Melancholic

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.4

220,304 ratings

82%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy is widely praised for its lyrical prose and deep exploration of family dynamics. Critics appreciate its vivid storytelling and emotional depth, though some find it overly melodramatic and lengthy. Overall, it resonates for its powerful depiction of personal trauma and resilience, despite pacing issues.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Prince of Tides?

A reader who would enjoy Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy is likely drawn to richly textured family sagas, emotionally charged narratives, and complex characters. Comparable to fans of The Great Santini by Pat Conroy and The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd, they appreciate Southern literature that explores deep, personal struggles.

4.4

220,304 ratings

82%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Tom Wingo

A charismatic narrator and literature teacher who tells the story of his family, revealing insights into his own life while uncovering dark family secrets.

Tom's twin sister, a well-known poet with a history of mental health challenges, whose journey to find truth and creativity is pivotal to the narrative.

The oldest Wingo sibling, known for his physical strength and protective nature, who remains rooted in their hometown and embodies a connection to nature.

The Wingo family matriarch, a strikingly beautiful and imaginative woman, whose complex relationship with her children and aspirations drive much of the family dynamic.

The domineering and abusive father of the Wingo siblings, whose relationship with his family is marked by violence and a struggle for control.

Henry's mother and the carefree grandmother of the Wingo children, her free-spirited nature and unconditional love provide solace to her grandchildren.

Tolitha's husband and the grandchildren's beloved grandfather, known for his gentle nature and religious fervor, who shares a special bond with Luke.

Tom's calm and centered wife, a doctor whose relationship with Tom is strained but significant to his personal journey.

Savannah's psychiatrist, a perceptive and empathetic character who becomes deeply involved in the Wingo family's story.

Susan's teenage son, who finds guidance and mentorship in Tom, helping him grow and develop through football.

Lila's second husband and the wealthiest man in Colleton, representing both power and past conflicts for Tom.

A menacing figure from the Wingo family's past, symbolizing fear and trauma that haunt the family's memories.

Book Details
Pages

679

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

South Carolina • 1960s

Publication Year

1986

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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