Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy is widely praised for its lyrical prose and deep exploration of family dynamics. Critics appreciate its vivid storytelling and emotional depth, though some find it overly melodramatic and lengthy. Overall, it resonates for its powerful depiction of personal trauma and resilience, despite pacing issues.

A reader who would enjoy Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy is likely drawn to richly textured family sagas, emotionally charged narratives, and complex characters. Comparable to fans of The Great Santini by Pat Conroy and The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd, they appreciate Southern literature that explores deep, personal struggles.

The Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy, narrated by Tom Wingo, follows the turbulent lives of the Wingo family of Melrose Island, South Carolina, and reveals the deep-seated trauma and abuse they endure. Through therapy sessions with Dr. Susan Lowenstein, Tom confronts his troubled past, intertwining flashbacks and family secrets to seek healing for himself and his sister Savannah, a poet battling severe mental health issues.

Emotional / Melancholic / Contemplative / Bittersweet / Nostalgic

Pat Conroy

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Prince of Tides reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Prince of Tides | SuperSummary

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Overview

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Prince of Tides Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 4

Prince of Tides Prologue-Chapter 4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-9

Prince of Tides Chapters 5-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-14

Prince of Tides Chapters 10-14 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 15-19

Prince of Tides Chapters 15-19 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 20-23

Prince of Tides Chapters 20-23 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 24-Epilogue

Prince of Tides Chapter 24-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Prince of Tides Character Analysis

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Themes

Prince of Tides Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Prince of Tides Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Prince of Tides Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Prince of Tides Essay Topics

Prince of Tides

Before You Read

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Who Should Read Prince of Tides?

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Book Details