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44 pages 1 hour read

The Tiger's Wife

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2011

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Book Brief

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Tea Obreht

The Tiger's Wife

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2011
Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Balkan Region • 1990s

Publication Year

2011

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Set in a modern-day Balkan country, The Tiger's Wife by Téa Obreht follows Natalia Stefanović, a young doctor investigating the mysterious death of her grandfather. Interweaving her personal journey with the folktales "The Tiger’s Wife" and "The Deathless Man," Natalia's narrative explores themes of grief, storytelling, and the nature of secrets.

Mysterious

Dark

Fantastical

Melancholic

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

3.6

103,837 ratings

50%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

19%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Tiger's Wife by Téa Obreht has captivated readers with its rich storytelling and intricate blend of myth and reality. Praise frequently centers on its lush prose and imaginative narrative, though some critique its pacing and complex plot structure. Overall, it's recognized for its vivid characters and evocative depiction of war-torn landscapes.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Tiger's Wife?

Readers who enjoy The Tiger’s Wife by Téa Obreht are typically fans of magical realism, folklore, and intricately woven narratives exploring cultural heritage and personal history. They may also appreciate works like One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez and The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern.

3.6

103,837 ratings

50%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

19%

Not a fan

Character List

Natalia Stefanović

A dedicated young doctor navigating post-war challenges, who embarks on a journey both geographic and personal, seeking understanding of her grandfather's legacy through her narrative voice.

A pivotal figure in the story, known for his exceptional medical skills and storytelling, whose life intertwined with legends and his own secretive battles, imparting invaluable lessons to Natalia.

A mysterious figure associated with inheritance and fate, known for his peculiar immortality and encounters with Natalia's grandfather that delve into profound themes of life and death.

An enigmatic and integral character referred to through a tale of mystery and legend, characterized by her connections to the village and her mysterious, unnamed identity.

A complex and often misunderstood character known for his turbulent and tragic life, whose actions affect not only his immediate family but the broader narrative of the village.

A character shrouded in legend, recognized by the villagers as a former great hunter tied to the mysterious elements of the story, whose tale intertwines with broader themes of survival and legacy.

An influential figure in the grandfather's early life known for his scientific knowledge and rational approach, whose presence in the village challenges local superstitions and leaves a lasting impact.

Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Balkan Region • 1990s

Publication Year

2011

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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