The Easter Parade
The Easter Parade
Book Brief
Beta226
Novel • Fiction
New York • 1930s-1970s
2003
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Easter Parade, Richard Yates explores the lives of two sisters, Emily and Sarah, from their childhood in the 1930s through adulthood. The sisters navigate personal struggles, relationships, and societal expectations as they seek happiness and fulfillment. The novel examines themes of ambition, disillusionment, and the complexity of family dynamics.
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Gritty
Dark
Reviews & Readership
10,626 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Easter Parade by Richard Yates is lauded for its poignant examination of the tumultuous lives of two sisters, highlighting Yates's mastery in depicting human frailty. Critics praise the realistic portrayal of disappointment and disillusionment. However, some find the narrative bleak, with themes of despair overwhelming the story's progression. Overall, it’s a compelling, albeit somber, read.
Who Should Read The Easter Parade?
A reader who appreciates The Easter Parade by Richard Yates is likely drawn to poignant, character-driven narratives that explore complex family dynamics and themes of unfulfilled dreams. Comparable titles include Revolutionary Road by Yates and The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger, both of which delve into personal struggle and existential introspection.
10,626 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Richard Yates's The Easter Parade was published in 1976, and despite his critical acclaim, Yates never saw commercial success during his lifetime, though his work has experienced a resurgence in interest in recent years.
The novel's title, The Easter Parade, is significant as it not only refers to a holiday tradition in New York City but also symbolizes the themes of appearances and societal expectations explored in the book.
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Yates is known for his ability to portray complex, often flawed characters, and The Easter Parade is frequently cited as one of his best works for its unflinching depiction of life's disappointments and the search for personal fulfillment.
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226
Novel • Fiction
New York • 1930s-1970s
2003
Adult
18+ years
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