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Thornton Wilder

The Skin of Our Teeth

Thornton WilderFiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1942

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Book Brief

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Thornton Wilder

The Skin of Our Teeth

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1942
Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Excelsior, New Jersey • 1940s

Publication Year

1942

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Skin of Our Teeth by Thornton Wilder follows the Antrobus family, who symbolize humanity's resilience as they endure and survive three catastrophic events: an ice age, a great flood, and a devastating war, with each act reflecting a different crisis. Employing surrealism and epic theater techniques, Wilder uses a cyclical plot to highlight themes of survival, family loyalty, and human perseverance.

Fantastical

Humorous

Contemplative

Hopeful

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.1

5,036 ratings

65%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Thornton Wilder's The Skin of Our Teeth has been lauded for its innovative narrative and blending of genres, deftly combining comedy, tragedy, and satire. Critics appreciate its timeless themes and social commentary. However, some find the play's unconventional structure challenging. Overall, it's celebrated for its originality and thought-provoking content.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Skin of Our Teeth?

A reader who enjoys The Skin of Our Teeth by Thornton Wilder is often drawn to innovative, meta-theatrical works that blend humor and existential themes. Similar audiences are captivated by the quirky, thought-provoking nature of works like Pirandello’s Six Characters in Search of an Author or Beckett’s Waiting for Godot.

4.1

5,036 ratings

65%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Excelsior, New Jersey • 1940s

Publication Year

1942

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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