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49 pages 1 hour read

The Echo Maker

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2006

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Book Brief

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Richard Powers

The Echo Maker

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2006
Book Details
Pages

464

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Kearney, Nebraska • Early 2000s

Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Echo Maker by Richard Powers is a psychological mystery thriller that follows Mark Schluter as he grapples with Capgras syndrome, a delusional condition caused by a traumatic brain injury which leads him to believe his sister Karin is an impostor. As they navigate this complex reality, deeper questions about memory, identity, and reality surface, with intertwined lives revealing shared struggles and connections. The novel addresses issues related to addiction, mental health conditions, and brain injury.

Mysterious

Unnerving

Contemplative

Emotional

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

3.7

13,100 ratings

53%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

18%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Richard Powers' The Echo Maker has been praised for its intricate exploration of identity and consciousness, weaving a compelling narrative with scientific themes. Critics commend the rich character development and thought-provoking questions. However, some find the pacing uneven and the scientific discussions occasionally dense. Overall, a stimulating read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Echo Maker?

Readers who appreciate deeply psychological and scientifically complex narratives, much like those in Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro or Still Alice by Lisa Genova, will find The Echo Maker by Richard Powers compelling. This book is ideal for fans of intricate character studies and themes of memory and identity intertwined with a touch of neuroscience.

3.7

13,100 ratings

53%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

18%

Not a fan

Character List

Mark Schluter

One of the three protagonists, Mark is involved in an accident that leaves him with a brain injury, leading him to struggle with his identity and significance. He is Karin's younger brother, and much of his story revolves around his personal transformation and relationships.

Mark's older sister and a protagonist in the story, Karin has spent much of her life protecting Mark from their parents' erratic behavior. She works at a crane refuge and faces challenges of identity and validation throughout the story.

A neuropsychologist described as resembling a combination of Charles Darwin and Santa Claus, Weber is a protagonist who writes books on unusual neurological conditions. He grapples with self-doubt about his career and the ethical implications of his work with patients like Mark.

An attractive woman in her forties, Barbara is notable for her calm demeanor and serves as an important support for Mark. Her interactions with the main characters reveal complexities in her identity, though she keeps significant parts of her past hidden.

A thin and quiet character who values the natural world and pursues a vegan lifestyle. He struggles with his identity and has a complicated relationship with Karin, whom he supports while dealing with his own personal conflicts.

A practical and earthy character who is initially seen as a balance between human interests and nature but later reveals plans that could harm the environment. He shows a more passionate and grounded attachment to Karin compared to Daniel.

Book Details
Pages

464

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Kearney, Nebraska • Early 2000s

Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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