Plot Summary

That Old Cape Magic

Richard Russo
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That Old Cape Magic

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009

Book Brief

Richard Russo

That Old Cape Magic

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cape Cod • Contemporary

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

That Old Cape Magic by Richard Russo follows Jack Griffin, a former screenwriter turned professor, who, over the span of a year, grapples with his parents' deaths and the challenges of his marriage, all while reflecting on his formative summers at Cape Cod and the realization that he may have become like his discontented parents. The novel explores complex family dynamics, marital strife, and the quest for self-awareness.

Nostalgic

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Melancholic

Humorous

Reviews & Readership

3.7

19,133 ratings

45%

Loved it

39%

Mixed feelings

15%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

That Old Cape Magic by Richard Russo offers a compelling exploration of midlife crises and family dynamics. Critics praise Russo's witty, poignant prose and his skillful character development. However, some find the pacing slow and the plot occasionally meandering. Overall, it's a thoughtful, yet uneven portrayal of personal reinvention.

Who should read this

Who Should Read That Old Cape Magic?

A reader who enjoys That Old Cape Magic by Richard Russo is likely drawn to character-driven literary fiction, exploring themes of family, middle age, and personal reflection. Fans of Anne Tyler’s Breathing Lessons or Jonathan Franzen’s The Corrections might find this poignant and humorous exploration of human relationships compelling.

3.7

19,133 ratings

45%

Loved it

39%

Mixed feelings

15%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cape Cod • Contemporary

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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