BOOK BRIEF

The Door

Magda Szabó
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The Door

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2005

Book Brief

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Magda Szabó

The Door

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2005
Book Details
Pages

262

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Budapest, Hungary • 1960s

Publication Year

2005

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Door by Magda Szabó narrates the complex relationship between a writer and her enigmatic housekeeper, Emerence. Set in post-war Hungary, the story explores themes of trust, power, and the secrets people keep. As their bond deepens, the writer learns about Emerence's troubled past, which challenges her understanding of loyalty and human connection.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Emotional

Melancholic

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.1

34,183 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Magda Szabó's The Door is praised for its intricate exploration of human relationships and moral complexities, highlighting the tension between personal and professional lives. Szabó's portrayal of the enigmatic Emerence is compelling, offering depth and emotional heft. Some find its narrative pacing slow, but overall, it captivates with its rich character development and timeless themes.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Door?

Readers who enjoy intricate character studies and complex human relationships, as seen in Elena Ferrante’s My Brilliant Friend, will find The Door by Magda Szabó captivating. Fans of psychological depth and moral inquiry, akin to Virginia Woolf's Mrs. Dalloway, will appreciate Szabó's profound exploration of secrets and friendship.

4.1

34,183 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

262

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Budapest, Hungary • 1960s

Publication Year

2005

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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