The Grass Harp
72
Novel • Fiction
Southern USA • 1940s
1951
Adult
14-18 years
The Grass Harp by Truman Capote is set in a 1930s Alabama town and follows eleven-year-old Collin, who, after his parents' tragic deaths, moves in with his aunts, Dolly and Verena. Dolly, gentle and herbal-focused, clashes with her business-driven sister. Discovering Verena's plan to exploit her herbal recipes, Dolly, Collin, and housekeeper Catherine flee to a tree house, creating a haven that becomes a town symbol.
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Heartwarming
Mysterious
6,619 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Reviews for Truman Capote's The Grass Harp highlight its lyrical prose and richly drawn characters, resonating with themes of individuality and small-town dynamics. Critics praise the narrative's enchanting, whimsical nature but note a slower pace that may not appeal to all readers. Overall, the novella's charm and depth are widely appreciated.
A reader who would enjoy The Grass Harp by Truman Capote likely appreciates lyrical prose, Southern Gothic themes, and character-driven narratives. Fans of Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird and Carson McCullers' The Heart is a Lonely Hunter will find similar emotional depth and exploration of human connection.
6,619 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Grass Harp, published in 1951, is a semi-autobiographical novel by Truman Capote, drawing inspiration from his childhood experiences in Alabama.
The novel was adapted into a Broadway play in 1952, with music by Claibe Richardson and a book by Kenward Elmslie.
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Capote reimagined The Grass Harp into a film released in 1995, featuring a star-studded cast including Walter Matthau and Sissy Spacek.
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72
Novel • Fiction
Southern USA • 1940s
1951
Adult
14-18 years
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