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Black Narcissus

By Rumer Godden
Series: Virago Modern Classics
0.0 (0 reviews)
3.82 goodreads logo

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Check link for latest rating. ( 3,265 ratings, 458 reviews)
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
Black Narcissus by Rumer Godden is a captivating novel that explores the challenges faced by a group of Anglican nuns as they establish a convent in the remote mountains of the Himalayas. The nuns are confronted with cultural differences and their inner conflicts, which are heightened by the seductive beauty of their surroundings and the presence of complex locals. Tension builds as the harsh environment and personal struggles test their faith and determination.
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Format: Hardback
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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 story may appeal to you if you enjoy atmospheric tales set in exotic locations, featuring complex characters and tension-filled narratives. It explores themes of desire, cultural clash, and the challenges faced by a group of nuns in a remote Himalayan setting. The evocative writing and psychological depth provide a richly textured reading experience.

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Black Narcissus

A beautiful hardback edition which was the basis for Powell & Pressburger's Academy Award-winning 1947, this haunting classic, published to coincide with a sumptuous new BBC adaptation.

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

NOW A HAUNTING BBC DRAMA, STARRING GEMMA ARTERTON AND DIANA RIGG

'A remarkable and beautiful book' DAILY TELEGRAPH

'I envy anyone reading it for the first time' AMANDA COE

'[Godden has] a genius for storytelling' EVENING STANDARD

High in the Himalayas, the mountaintop palace shines like a jewel. Built for the General's harem, laughter and music once floated out over the gorge. Now it sits abandoned, windswept and haunting.

The palace is bestowed to the Sisters of Mary, and what was once known as 'the House of Women' becomes the Convent of St Faith. Close to the heavens, the nuns feel inspired, working fervently to establish their school and hospital. But as the isolation and emptiness of the mountain become increasingly unsettling, passions long repressed emerge with tragic consequences . . .

Series: Virago Modern Classics

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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?

Black Narcissus is praised for its remarkable beauty and complex vision of desire, creating a story that is both pleasurable and emotionally subtle. Reviewers compare its literary skill to that of classics like Rebecca and Gone With the Wind, highlighting its rare blend of popular appeal and depth. The novel is celebrated as one in a thousand, offering a unique and enriching reading experience.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780349014043

Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 12 November 2020

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Virago Press Ltd

Contributors:

  • Introduction by Rosie Thomas

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 26.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 200.0mm

Weight: 397g

Pages: 272

Collections

Fiction General Fiction Literary Fiction Rumer Godden Series: Virago Modern Classics

About the Author

Rumer Godden (1907-1998) was the acclaimed author of over sixty works of fiction and non-fiction for adults and children. Born in England, she and her siblings grew up in Narayanganj, India, and she later spent many years living in Kolkata and Kashmir. Several of her novels were made into films, including Black Narcissus, The Greengage Summer and The River, which was filmed by Jean Renoir. She was appointed OBE in 1993.

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