Reviews

The Bridge of San Luis Rey by Thornton Wilder

indium's review against another edition

2.0

It was very moving in parts, but I really struggled with others. The introduction really drew me in, but it was patchy otherwise. I just couldn't really get into it.

peyton_honeck's review against another edition

adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

isabelbrieler's review against another edition

4.0

I was recommended this little book by a friend, and although I procrastinated horribly on reading it, I am very glad I did. The characters are lovely, their stories are poignant, and Wilder's writing is a joy to read.

afroabsurdist's review against another edition

adventurous dark emotional funny hopeful mysterious reflective sad tense fast-paced

4.0

oguruzzo's review against another edition

4.5

Single-mindedness of the book is very interesting. Basically it's nothing but a number of psychological portraits: any actions that are described are motivated by illustration of the characters or tracking their development, their passion. Practically no attempt is made to complicate the construction of the story and craft some additional plot driver, suspense source. In this sense you might call it truly unadulterated literary fiction.
I wasn't blown by it but don't quite see how it could have been better at its thing than it is. As it is basically just a series of oddball character portraits it naturally reminded me of Weinsburg, Ohio, only this book is more nakedly optimistic (it earns it by aspiring to be more of a universal fable, I guess).

johngeebair's review against another edition

4.0

For such a small book it gives you a lot to think about.

sashasmith's review against another edition

mysterious reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

belwood303's review against another edition

2.0

I recently watched the Australian show Glitch, in which this book is quoted. I was not sure what to expect when I started reading, and I'm not sure how I feel about it now that I am finished. I agree that it is a philosophical book more than a story, elaborate character sketches but no plot. Perhaps like life itself.

quenchgum's review against another edition

4.0

"Learn at last that anywhere you may expect grace."

helenafaustina's review

challenging emotional inspiring reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5