Discover books similar to "The Illusionist"
Jennifer Johnston
The Illusionist
3.28
"The Illusionist" by Jennifer Johnston is a haunting and lyrical novel that explores the complexities of human relationships and the power of memory. The story is set in Ireland during World War I and follows the life of an aging magician named Wally, who has returned to his childhood home after many years of traveling. As Wally settles back into his old life, he begins to reflect on his past and the people who have shaped his identity. He recalls his tumultuous relationship with his father, a strict and unyielding man who never approved of his son's career choice. He also remembers his first love, a young woman named Sarah, who disappeared suddenly and left him with a broken heart. As Wally delves deeper into his memories, he begins to uncover secrets about his family's past that challenge his understanding of himself and his place in the world. He discovers that his father had a hidden identity and that his own birth was the result of an illicit affair. These revelations force Wally to confront the illusions he has created in his own mind and to come to terms with the truth about his past. Johnston's writing is both elegant and evocative, capturing the beauty and harshness of the Irish landscape and the emotional turmoil of her characters. The Illusionist is a deeply moving and thought-provoking novel that will resonate with readers long after they have turned the final page. It is a story of love and loss, of the power of memory, and of the illusions we create to protect ourselves from the pain of the past. Overall, The Illusionist is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel that is not to be missed. It is a testament to Johnston's skill as a writer that she is able to create such complex and fully realized characters, and to explore themes of memory, identity, and love in such a powerful and affecting way...
List of books similar to "The Illusionist":
Sebastian Barry
The Secret Scripture
Like 'The Illusionist', this book explores the theme of hidden identities and secrets. The story is about an old woman, Roseanne McNulty, who is living in a mental hospital and is writing her life story. The novel deals with themes of memory, identity, and the power of storytelling, much like 'The Illusionist'.
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Colm Tóibín
The Master
This novel, like 'The Illusionist', is set in the early 20th century and explores the inner life of a complex and troubled protagonist. The Master tells the story of Henry James and his struggle to come to terms with his own identity and sexuality, as well as his place in the world of literature.
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Maggie O'Farrell
The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox
This novel, like 'The Illusionist', deals with the theme of hidden pasts and secrets coming to light. The story is about a woman, Esme Lennox, who has been institutionalized for sixty years and is now being released into the care of her great-niece. The novel explores the reasons for Esme's institutionalization and the impact it has had on her and her family.
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Julie Orringer
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Like 'The Illusionist', this novel is set in Europe during a time of great upheaval and explores the themes of identity, family, and survival. The Invisible Bridge tells the story of a Jewish family from Hungary and their experiences during World War II. The novel is a powerful exploration of the human spirit and the lengths to which people will go to survive.
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Margaret Atwood
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Like 'The Illusionist', this novel is a complex and layered story that explores the theme of hidden identities and secrets. The Blind Assassin tells the story of two sisters, Iris and Laura Chase, and the secrets they keep. The novel is a rich and intricate exploration of memory, storytelling, and the power of the imagination.
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Kate Morton
The House at Riverton
This novel, like 'The Illusionist', is a historical mystery that explores the lives of complex and troubled characters. The House at Riverton tells the story of a grand English house and the secrets it holds. The novel deals with themes of memory, identity, and the power of the past.
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Sarah Waters
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Like 'The Illusionist', this novel is set in the past and explores the lives of complex and troubled characters. The Paying Guests tells the story of a woman, Frances Wray, who is forced to take in lodgers after her family falls on hard times. The novel deals with themes of love, class, and the human capacity for resilience.
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Sarah Perry
The Essex Serpent
This novel, like 'The Illusionist', is a historical mystery that explores the lives of complex and troubled characters. The Essex Serpent tells the story of a woman, Cora Seaborne, who moves to Essex to investigate reports of a mythical serpent. The novel deals with themes of science, religion, and the power of the imagination.
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