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352
Novel • Fiction
Elkins Park, Pennsylvania • 1940s-1950s
2019
Adult
18+ years
The Dutch House by Ann Patchett tells the story of siblings Danny and Maeve Conroy, expelled from their opulent home by their stepmother Andrea after the death of their father, Cyril. As they navigate their lives in the 1960s through the 1990s, they grapple with family dynamics, loss, and the longing to reclaim their past, symbolized by their childhood home, the Dutch House.
Melancholic
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Emotional
553,410 ratings
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Ann Patchett's novel The Dutch House is widely praised for its compelling narrative and rich character development. Critics commend Patchett's delicate prose and evocative depiction of familial relationships. Some reviews criticize its slow pacing and predictability, but overall, it is celebrated for its emotional depth and vivid storytelling.
Readers who relish deeply emotional, character-driven narratives will appreciate The Dutch House by Ann Patchett. Fans of titles like A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara and The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt will find similar themes of family, loss, and redemption captivatingly woven in this tale.
553,410 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Maeve Conroy
Danny's older sister who acts as a mother figure following their mother's departure and navigates life while managing severe diabetes.
Andrea Smith Conroy
Cyril's second wife, portrayed as a younger, attractive woman whose central action of evicting Danny from the family home defines much of the novel's conflict.
Elna Conroy
Danny and Maeve's mother, characterized by her departure to pursue charity work and her later return to confront her past at the Dutch House.
Cyril Conroy
A self-made financial success and father to Danny and Maeve, whose key decisions shape the family's fortunes.
Celeste Norcross Conroy
Danny's wife who begins with traditional family aspirations but later questions her role as wife and mother.
Fluffy (Fiona)
The children's caretaker at the Dutch House and a link between Danny's past and present, providing insight and support to his family.
Sandy
A long-serving staff member at the Dutch House, offering information about the family history and supporting Elna later in life.
Jocelyn
Another long-serving staff member at the Dutch House known for her warmth and loyalty to the Conroy children.
May Conroy
Danny's daughter, depicted as a strong-willed child with a budding talent in performing arts.
Morey Able
A chemistry professor who inadvertently aids Danny's venture into real estate.
Norma Smith
One of Andrea's daughters, who goes into pediatric oncology and reconnects with Danny later in life.
Mr. Otterson
Maeve's employer, providing professional and personal support throughout her adult life.
Kevin Conroy
Danny and Celeste's youngest child, initially sickly but later fulfilling his mother's educational aspirations by becoming a doctor.
Beatrice Smith (Bright)
Andrea's youngest daughter, whose relationship with her mother is fractured, leading her to pursue a career as a yoga instructor.
352
Novel • Fiction
Elkins Park, Pennsylvania • 1940s-1950s
2019
Adult
18+ years
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