The Mermaid Chair
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2005
368
Novel • Fiction
Egret Island • 2000s
2005
Adult
18+ years
The Mermaid Chair by Sue Monk Kidd follows Jessie Sullivan, who returns to Egret Island to care for her mentally unstable mother, Nelle. While there, she confronts past traumas, examines her stagnant marriage, and becomes romantically involved with a monk named Brother Thomas. Jessie navigates introspective challenges and seeks independence while uncovering secrets about her father's death and her mother's struggles. Topics include self-harm and parental death.
Contemplative
Emotional
Romantic
Bittersweet
Hopeful
91,393 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Mermaid Chair by Sue Monk Kidd offers a compelling narrative with rich, evocative prose and a deeply reflective journey of self-discovery. Positive reviews commend its lyrical writing and emotional depth. However, some criticize the slow pacing and predictability of the plot. While the character development is strong, not all readers connect with the protagonist’s decisions. MLA
Readers who enjoy introspective journeys of self-discovery, similar to those in The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd or Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert, will find The Mermaid Chair captivating. Ideal for those drawn to emotionally rich narratives set against evocative southern landscapes, this book delves deep into themes of spirituality, love, and transformation.
91,393 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
368
Novel • Fiction
Egret Island • 2000s
2005
Adult
18+ years
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