Quick take
Don't let the length discourage you: The 700 pages of this part coming-of-age, part survival story fly right on by.
Good to know
400+ pages
Famous author
Critically acclaimed
Now a movie
Synopsis
Theo Decker, a 13-year-old New Yorker, miraculously survives an accident that kills his mother. Abandoned by his father, Theo is taken in by the family of a wealthy friend. Bewildered by his strange new home on Park Avenue, disturbed by schoolmates who don't know how to talk to him, and tormented above all by a longing for his mother, he clings to the one thing that reminds him of her: a small, mysteriously captivating painting that ultimately draws Theo into a wealthy and insular art community.
As an adult, Theo moves silkily between the drawing rooms of the rich and the dusty labyrinth of an antiques store where he works. He is alienated and in love—and at the center of a narrowing, ever more dangerous circle.
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Member ratings (5,776)
Kirsten M.
Chattanooga, TN
I really charged through this modern classic. While I can’t quite tell you WHY I couldn’t put it down besides the fact that the author is a good writer, I did fall for Theo and want the best for him.
Kelly T.
Cumberland, RI
A lot packed into 771 pages. You forget that the narrator is actually “writing” the book. Such a wild ride of a life and a story Theo and Donna Tartt tell the reader. It lives up to the hype a must!
Jen C.
Indianapolis, IN
This was an epic book! Although it is long, the story is incredible and it makes the length worth it. The Goldfinch is written so lyrically - it is pleasant to read. 5/5 ⭐️ and I am happy I read it.
Courtney C.
Salt Lake City, UT
This book was fantastic. I absolutely adored this book. I couldn’t stop reading it! The attention to detail, the storyline, the characters... It is all astounding! I can not recommend this book enough
Casey B.
Pittsburgh, PA
Follow Theo on his coming-of-age journey—reacting to the unlucky deck he was dealt in life, but not quite innocent in it all. Engaging, whirling, tangible. You are right there with him through it all.