36 pages • 1 hour read
Tinkers
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Book Brief
192
Novel • Fiction
Maine • 1920s
2009
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Tinkers by Paul Harding follows George Washington Crosby, a man on his deathbed, as he reflects on his past and family history. His memories intertwine with those of his father, Howard, a traveling salesman with epilepsy. The narrative explores themes of mortality, memory, and the bonds between generations amidst George's passion for clock repair and Howard's struggles and eventual departure. The story addresses epilepsy, seizures, and hospital commitments.
Contemplative
Melancholic
Mysterious
Bittersweet
Serene
Reviews & Readership
38,155 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Paul Harding's Tinkers dazzles with its poetic prose and deep exploration of memory and time. Reviewers praise its lyrical language and intricate portrayal of the human condition. However, some find its fragmented narrative and slow pace challenging, potentially alienating readers seeking a more conventional plot. Despite this, its emotional depth and artistic merit resonate strongly.
Who Should Read Tinkers?
Readers who enjoy intricately woven narratives, deep philosophical inquiries, and rich, descriptive prose will appreciate Paul Harding's Tinkers. Fans of Marilynne Robinson’s Gilead and Annie Proulx’s The Shipping News will find comparable introspection and a focus on the subtle complexities of life in this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.
38,155 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Howard Aaron Crosby
Howard Aaron Crosby
George’s father and a tinker who shares a passion for fixing objects. He grapples with his epilepsy and its impact on his family relationships.
Kathleen Crosby
Kathleen Crosby
Howard’s first wife, a religious and strict woman who raises their four children in Maine. She struggles with feelings of resentment and loss related to her role as a mother.
Megan Lightman
Megan Lightman
Howard’s second wife, who is kind and supportive in the face of his epilepsy. She represents a period of personal and professional happiness for Howard.
192
Novel • Fiction
Maine • 1920s
2009
Adult
18+ years
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