The Man Who Loved Children
The Man Who Loved Children
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1940
Book Brief
576
Novel • Fiction
Washington, D.C. • 1930s
1940
Adult
18+ years
1110L
Super Short Summary
Christina Stead's The Man Who Loved Children (1940) explores the dysfunctional lives of the Pollit family, centering on Sam, Henny, and their children, particularly Louie. Living in a decrepit estate in Washington, the family grapples with financial hardship, interpersonal conflict, and parental neglect, leading to escalating tension and emotional turmoil within the household. Sensitive topics include domestic violence and emotional abuse.
Contemplative
Dark
Melancholic
Emotional
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
4,813 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Christina Stead's The Man Who Loved Children is a complex and intense portrayal of a dysfunctional family. Critics praise its psychological depth and Stead's masterful character development, particularly the protagonist's disturbing nuance. However, some note the dense prose and challenging readability. Overall, it's a deeply impactful yet demanding read.
Who Should Read The Man Who Loved Children?
A reader who enjoys complex family dynamics and psychological depth, akin to the works of Leo Tolstoy's Anna Karenina and Betty Smith's A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, would appreciate Christina Stead's The Man Who Loved Children. This novel delves into familial dysfunction and intricate character studies, appealing to fans of introspective, literary fiction.
4,813 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
576
Novel • Fiction
Washington, D.C. • 1930s
1940
Adult
18+ years
1110L
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