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Flaubert's Parrot

By Julian Barnes
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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Flaubert's Parrot by Julian Barnes is a thought-provoking exploration of obsession as viewed through the eyes of Geoffrey Braithwaite, a retired doctor who becomes engrossed in uncovering the truth about Gustave Flaubert's life. The narrative weaves together elements of literary criticism, biography, and personal reflection, as Braithwaite seeks meaning in Flaubert's story, culminating in a quest to discover which stuffed parrot truly inspired the author. It's a blend of mystery and literary analysis, exploring themes of art, truth, and the complexities of human emotions.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy clever narratives that weave historical facts with imaginative fiction. If you appreciate exploring themes of obsession, identity, and the elusive nature of truth, all wrapped in a witty and intellectual style, you might find it captivating. Fans of literary puzzles and a deep dive into the life of a famous author will likely be drawn to this unique and thought-provoking read.

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Geoffrey Braithwaite is a retired doctor haunted by an obsession with the great French literary genius, Gustave Flaubert.

A classic work by a great British author, published for the first time by Vintage and Vintage Classics

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

"An intricate and delightful novel" (Graham Greene) from Booker prize-winning author Julian Barnes.

Geoffrey Braithwaite is a retired doctor haunted by an obsession with the French literary genius, Gustave Flaubert.

As Geoffrey investigates the mystery of the stuffed parrot Flaubert borrowed from the Museum of Rouen to help research one of his novels, we learn an enormous amount about the writer's work, family, lovers, thought processes, health and obsessions. But we also gradually come to learn some important and shocking details about Geoffrey himself.

A compelling weave of fiction and imaginatively ordered fact, Flaubert’s Parrot is by turns moving and entertaining, witty and scholarly, and a tour-de-force of seductive originality.

"Unputdownable... A mesmeric original" Philip Larkin

"Delightful and enriching...a book to revel in!" Joseph Heller

"A wry and graceful book... Unfailingly sharp and often very funny" Sunday Times

WITH A NEW INTRODUCTION BY THE AUTHOR TO MARK THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF FIRST PUBLICATION

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Flaubert's Parrot by Julian Barnes receives high praise for its delightful and enriching narrative. It is celebrated as a literary gem that balances readability with entertainment, offering endless food for thought. Critics commend its beautiful writing, originality, and wry humour, making it both unputdownable and a tour de force.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780099540588

Publisher: Vintage Publishing

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 02 July 2009

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Vintage Classics

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 14.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 197.0mm

Weight: 151g

Pages: 208

Collections

Best Sellers at Book Hero Classic Fiction Classic General Fiction Fiction General Fiction In Stock Books In-Stock Fiction Books Julian Barnes Literary Fiction New Release Fiction Penguin Books

About the Author

Julian Barnes is the author of twelve novels, including The Sense of an Ending, which won the 2011 Man Booker Prize for Fiction. He has also written three books of short stories, Cross Channel, The Lemon Table and Pulse; four collections of essays; and two books of non-fiction, Nothing to be Frightened Of and the Sunday Times Number One bestseller Levels of Life. He lives in London.

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