The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz by Mordecai Richler follows Duddy, a tenacious young Jewish man from Montreal, as he aspires to rise from his humble background to achieve success and acquire land, a dream instilled by his grandfather. Throughout his journey, Duddy engages in morally ambiguous activities, repeatedly exploiting those around him, ultimately seeking validation and grappling with the consequences of his actions.

Mordecai Richler's The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz is celebrated for its vivid character development and sharp social commentary, portraying the complexities of ambition and ethics. However, some critics find the protagonist's relentless drive off-putting. The novel’s humor and poignant narrative, though, make it a compelling read despite these critiques.

A reader who would enjoy The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz by Mordecai Richler is likely captivated by character-driven narratives exploring ambition, identity, and socio-economic challenges. Similar to Saul Bellow's The Adventures of Augie March, this reader appreciates rich, culturally infused settings and complex, flawed protagonists.

Gritty / Challenging / Humorous / Melancholic / Emotional

- The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz was published in 1959 and is one of Mordecai Richler's best-known works, exploring themes of ambition and identity in post-war Montreal.
- The novel has been adapted into various mediums, including a 1974 film starring Richard Dreyfuss, which brought the story wider acclaim and recognition.
- Mordecai Richler drew inspiration for the novel from his own experiences growing up in the Jewish community of Montréal, Canada, giving it an authentic and personal touch.

**Duddy Kravitz**  
The ambitious and crafty younger son of a taxi driver, who struggles in school but is determined to achieve financial success through any means necessary, including taking on various odd jobs.

**Max Kravitz**  
Duddy's father, a taxi driver and widower, who favors his elder son Lennie and holds little hope for Duddy, viewing him as unintelligent and unruly.

**Lennie Kravitz**  
Duddy's responsible older brother, who feels the pressure of family expectations to become a doctor, even as he struggles with personal missteps and guilt.

**MacPherson**  
Duddy's disenchanted history teacher whose experiences with students and personal tragedy have made him bitter and disillusioned.

**Uncle Benjy**  
Duddy’s successful businessman uncle, who values honesty and upright living and shares a tense relationship with Duddy due to differing values.

**Aunt Ida**  
The wife of Benjy, who provides insight into the Kravitz family dynamics and challenges, often noting the emotional manipulations within the family.

**Irwin**  
A fellow waiter at the hotel where Duddy works, who frequently belittles Duddy and uses his social status to embarrass him.

**Linda**  
The daughter of the hotel owner, who represents a different social circle and briefly interacts with Duddy, often being part of moments that highlight his outsider status.

**Yvette**  
Duddy’s devoted aide and romantic interest, who supports him in his business endeavors and personal life, helping him with the logistics of key ventures.

**Jerry Dingleman (The Boy Wonder)**  
A legendary figure in Duddy's community known for his success, who becomes involved with Duddy in questionable business ventures.

**Peter Friar**  
A washed-up filmmaker with grand dreams whom Duddy collaborates with to produce films, entrusting him with artistic control.

**Hugh Calder**  
A wealthy individual Duddy meets while dealing with a personal favor for his family, who eventually offers Duddy financial backing and advice.

**Virgil**  
A loyal friend and employee of Duddy's, who suffers from epilepsy and becomes involved in Duddy's various business schemes.

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