Rich Man, Poor Man
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1978
666
Novel • Fiction
Port Phillip, New York • 1940s
1978
Adult
18+ years
Irwin Shaw’s Rich Man, Poor Man explores the lives of the Jordache siblings after World War II. The narrative follows their divergent paths—one seeking wealth and the other struggling with adversity—as they navigate personal and societal challenges across decades.
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Rich Man, Poor Man by Irwin Shaw is praised for its captivating narrative and deep character development, especially in portraying the contrasting lives of the Jordache siblings. Reviewers highlight its timeless themes of ambition and familial conflict. Critics note, however, that its pacing can be uneven and some subplots feel underdeveloped. Overall, it's a compelling multigenerational saga.
Readers who enjoy rich, multigenerational sagas with complex characters and family dynamics, such as those found in Jeffrey Archer's Kane and Abel or John Jakes' North and South, will find Rich Man, Poor Man by Irwin Shaw captivating. The novel's exploration of ambition, love, and societal change appeals to fans of intricate, character-driven narratives.
39,857 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
666
Novel • Fiction
Port Phillip, New York • 1940s
1978
Adult
18+ years
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