The Golden House By: Sarah S. (Sarah Schoonmaker) Baker (1824-1906) |
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Sarah S. Baker's novel, The Golden House, is a captivating and thought-provoking tale that delves into the complexities of family, identity, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Set against the backdrop of New York City, this literary work takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the lives of the Goldens, a mysterious and enigmatic family.
The narrative unfolds through the perspective of the book's unnamed protagonist, who becomes deeply intertwined with the Goldens when he moves next door to their luxurious mansion. As the protagonist peels back the layers of the family's history, secrets, and eccentricities, a captivating story of love, tragedy, and personal reinvention emerges.
Baker expertly weaves an intricate tapestry of characters, each with their own distinct voice and complexities. From the patriarch, Nero Golden, an enigmatic and domineering figure with a murky past, to his three sons, Petya, Apu, and D, who grapple with their own inner demons and aspirations, each family member adds depth and nuance to the narrative.
Themes of cultural assimilation, personal identity, and the power of literature resonate throughout The Golden House. Baker skillfully explores the challenges faced by immigrants attempting to carve out a place for themselves in a foreign land, while also delving into the ways in which individuals redefine their own identities to fit societal expectations.
The author's prose is richly descriptive, painting a vibrant picture of New York City and creating a sensory experience for the reader. Baker's writing is both beautiful and introspective, evoking a range of emotions - from laughter to heartbreak - as she delves into the triumphs and tragedies of the characters' lives.
Although The Golden House provides a fascinating exploration of the human condition, the novel occasionally suffers from a convoluted plot and excessively detailed subplots. At times, the intricate web of characters can overwhelm the reader, making it challenging to keep track of every individual's backstory and motivations.
Despite these minor shortcomings, The Golden House is a remarkable work that will leave readers pondering the themes and questions it raises long after they turn the final page. Sarah S. Baker's ability to craft vivid characters, thought-provoking ideas, and a captivating narrative make this novel a true gem in contemporary fiction. For anyone seeking a beautifully written exploration of family dynamics, immigration, and the complexities of identity, The Golden House is a must-read. [Illustration: Vignette] THE GOLDEN HOUSE BY MRS. WOODS BAKER LONDON, EDINBURGH, AND NEW YORK THOMAS NELSON AND SONS 1903 CONTENTS I. Black Eyes and Blue II. Karin's Flock III. Aneholm Church IV. No Secrets V. An Artist VI. The Boys VII. A Young Teacher VIII. In Alma's Room. IX. Karin's FĂȘte X. The Little Cottage XI. The Slide XII. A Pedestrian Trip XIII. The Princess XIV. Where? XV. The Birthday Gift XVI. Spectacles XVII. Questionings XVIII. Nono's Plans, and Plans for Nono XIX. Pietro XX. The Opened Door LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. Nono and the princess . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Frontispiece. Nono's gift to Alma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vignette. "He thrust out both hands as if throwing gifts in lavish profusion" The baptismal service "The first verse of a hymn was dictated to him" The model house Frans admonished "She had seen the hand organ man from the window" THE GOLDEN HOUSE. CHAPTER I. BLACK EYES AND BLUE. A dreary little group was trudging along a Swedish highroad one bright October morning. It was a union between north and south, and like many other unions, not altogether founded on love... Continue reading book >>
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Genres for this book |
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Fiction |
Teen/Young adult |
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