Dodie Smith's I Capture the Castle receives widespread praise for its evocative prose and charming, coming-of-age narrative. Readers appreciate the vivid characterization and nostalgic, romantic setting. However, some criticize its slower pace and occasional predictability. Overall, it remains a beloved classic for its rich, immersive storytelling.

A reader who enjoys I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith will likely be captivated by coming-of-age stories, 1930s English settings, eccentric family dynamics, and romantic elements. Fans of Little Women and Pride and Prejudice would find this novel especially engaging due to its relatable heroine, Cassandra, and its blend of wit and pathos.

I Capture the Castle is a young adult novel by Dodie Smith published in 1948, chronicling the fictional journal of 17-year-old aspiring author Cassandra Mortmain. Living in a decaying castle in Sussex, England, Cassandra documents her family's financial struggles and interactions with the wealthy Cotton brothers, leading to romantic entanglements and personal growth.

Nostalgic / Romantic / Contemplative / Bittersweet / Heartwarming

- I Capture the Castle is the first novel by Dodie Smith, who is also famous for writing The Hundred and One Dalmatians.
- The novel was published in 1948 and has since been acclaimed for its vivid narrative style, capturing the life of its young protagonist with depth and humor.
- I Capture the Castle was adapted into a feature film in 2003, starring Romola Garai, Rose Byrne, and Bill Nighy.

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I Capture the Castle Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Sixpenny Book: March”

Part 1, Chapters 1-5

I Capture the Castle Part 1, Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Shilling Book: April and May”

Part 2, Chapters 6-10

I Capture the Castle Part 2, Chapters 6-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Two-Guinea Book: June to October”

Part 3, Chapters 11-14

I Capture the Castle Part 3, Chapters 11-14 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 15-16

I Capture the Castle Part 3, Chapters 15-16 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

I Capture the Castle Character Analysis

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I Capture the Castle Themes

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I Capture the Castle Symbols & Motifs

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I Capture the Castle Important Quotes

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I Capture the Castle Essay Topics

I Capture the Castle

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