What I like about The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt is that it is an old-fashioned story — strong on plot with a good cast of believable characters and occasionally brilliant writing.
Put that together with some interesting themes about life and art not to mention a ‘moral of the story’ and it all adds up to a pretty satisfying read of Dickensian dimensions.
Tartt is best known for her 1992 novel, The Secret History. She published a second novel, The Little Friend, ten years later in 2002. Since then, there has been a long hiatus until The Goldfinch.
The Goldfinch is a lengthy read — perhaps too much so for some readers. Initially slow to get into, it becomes engrossing as the story continues.
I particularly liked the lyrical closing pages which, a little like the last notes of a grand symphony, seemed a perfect ending to a rather delicious and indulgent work of art.
Great job, Ms Tartt. The long gestation was worth the wait.