The Goldfinch Summary
The Goldfinch is a novel by Donna Tartt that was published in 2013. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2014 and has been adapted into a film in 2019. The audiobook version of the novel is narrated by David Pittu and has a running time of approximately 32 hours.
The Goldfinch is a coming-of-age story that follows the life of Theodore Decker, who is 13 years old when his mother is killed in a terrorist attack at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. In the chaos of the aftermath, Theo steals a painting called The Goldfinch, which he believes is a last link to his mother.
The novel explores themes of loss, grief, love, and the power of art. It follows Theo's journey as he moves from New York to Las Vegas, and eventually back to New York, all while grappling with the guilt and trauma of his mother's death and the responsibility of keeping The Goldfinch safe.
One of the most striking aspects of the novel is Tartt's writing style, which is richly descriptive and immersive. She paints vivid pictures of the settings and characters, drawing the reader into Theo's world and emotions. The audiobook version is no exception, with Pittu's narration bringing the characters and settings to life in a way that feels almost cinematic.
The Goldfinch has been praised for its complexity and depth, with many readers and critics noting the novel's exploration of the meaning and power of art. It has also been criticized for its length and meandering plot, with some readers finding the middle section of the book slow and disjointed.
Overall, The Goldfinch is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant novel that explores the complexities of love, loss, and art. The audiobook version is a compelling and immersive way to experience Tartt's writing and the world of Theo Decker.