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1 awardUS

Let the Great World Spin

by Colum McCann

Years Won

2009

Awards

1

Regions

US

Categories

1

Award History

Summary

"Let the Great World Spin" is a novel set in New York City during the 1970s. It revolves around the event of Philippe Petit's tightrope walk between the Twin Towers. The narrative is woven through the lives of various characters, each with their own struggles and stories. A group of Irish monks grapples with the complexities of faith and loss. A mother mourns her son, a victim of violence, and seeks solace in the city. A wealthy woman reflects on her life while attending a memorial for her son. The lives of these characters intersect in unexpected ways, revealing connections across social divides. Themes of art, grief, and the search for meaning are explored throughout the novel. The city itself acts as a backdrop, influencing the characters' experiences. Ultimately, the book examines the human condition amidst the chaos of urban life.