Winter's Tale
Winter's Tale
Book Brief
Beta769
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1900s
2005
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Winter's Tale by Mark Helprin follows individuals in a fantastical, early 20th-century New York City. Central figures include a thief and a dying woman, as their destinies intertwine amidst themes of love, redemption, and the struggle between light and darkness. The narrative blends realism with elements of the supernatural and time travel, crafting a tale of wonder and complexity.
Fantastical
Mysterious
Romantic
Inspirational
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
31,028 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Winter's Tale by Mark Helprin is praised for its lyrical prose and imaginative narrative, capturing a dream-like version of New York City. Readers appreciate its rich detail and emotional depth. However, some find its lengthy and complex storyline challenging to follow. Overall, it is celebrated for its enchanting and ambitious storytelling.
Who Should Read Winter's Tale?
A reader who cherishes lush, poetic prose and magical realism will revel in Mark Helprin's Winter's Tale. Fans of Gabriel García Márquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude and Susanna Clarke's Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell will appreciate its intricate narrative and blend of fantasy with historical New York City.
31,028 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Winter's Tale by Mark Helprin features magical realism, blending fantastical elements with a richly described New York City setting that spans across several centuries.
The novel inspired a 2014 film adaptation of the same name, directed by Akiva Goldsman and starring Colin Farrell, which brought Helprin's imaginative and surreal vision to a broader audience.
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Mark Helprin reportedly drew inspiration from his own experiences living in New York City to create the atmospheric and detailed backdrop of the novel, emphasizing the city's character and timeless quality.
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769
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1900s
2005
Adult
18+ years
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