65 pages • 2 hours read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
679
Novel • Fiction
South Carolina • 1960s
1986
Adult
18+ years
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
220,304 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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.
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.
220,304 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Savannah Wingo
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.
Luke Wingo
The oldest Wingo sibling, known for his physical strength and protective nature, who remains rooted in their hometown and embodies a connection to nature.
Lila Wingo
The Wingo family matriarch, a strikingly beautiful and imaginative woman, whose complex relationship with her children and aspirations drive much of the family dynamic.
Henry Wingo
The domineering and abusive father of the Wingo siblings, whose relationship with his family is marked by violence and a struggle for control.
Tolitha Wingo
Henry's mother and the carefree grandmother of the Wingo children, her free-spirited nature and unconditional love provide solace to her grandchildren.
Amos Wingo
Tolitha's husband and the grandchildren's beloved grandfather, known for his gentle nature and religious fervor, who shares a special bond with Luke.
Sallie
Tom's calm and centered wife, a doctor whose relationship with Tom is strained but significant to his personal journey.
Susan Lowenstein
Savannah's psychiatrist, a perceptive and empathetic character who becomes deeply involved in the Wingo family's story.
Bernard Woodruff
Susan's teenage son, who finds guidance and mentorship in Tom, helping him grow and develop through football.
Reese Newbury
Lila's second husband and the wealthiest man in Colleton, representing both power and past conflicts for Tom.
Otis Miller/Callanwolde
A menacing figure from the Wingo family's past, symbolizing fear and trauma that haunt the family's memories.
679
Novel • Fiction
South Carolina • 1960s
1986
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.