Plot Summary

The Stone Carvers

Jane Urquhart
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The Stone Carvers

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2001

Book Brief

Jane Urquhart

The Stone Carvers

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2001
Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ontario • Early 20th century

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Stone Carvers by Jane Urquhart follows three generations of a Canadian family from the 19th century to the aftermath of World War I, centering on their struggles and transformations shaped by art and history. It moves from the establishment of a church by two German immigrants in Ontario, through the impact of the Great War on their descendants, culminating in the building of the Vimy Memorial in France. The novel examines themes of family, memory, and the redemptive power of art. Several characters experience the horrors of war and the loss of loved ones.

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Contemplative

Nostalgic

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.1

7,059 ratings

72%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Stone Carvers by Jane Urquhart is widely praised for its lyrical prose and rich historical context. Critics commend the emotional depth and intricate character development. However, some find the pacing uneven and the narrative occasionally meandering. Overall, it’s a poignant exploration of love, loss, and art’s transcendent power.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Stone Carvers?

An ideal reader for Jane Urquhart's The Stone Carvers would appreciate intricate historical narratives, rich character development, and themes of love, loss, and artistry. Similar to readers of Michael Ondaatje's The English Patient or E. L. Doctorow's Ragtime, they enjoy deeply woven tales that intersect personal and collective histories.

4.1

7,059 ratings

72%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ontario • Early 20th century

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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