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Cover of The House on the Lagoon
Literary Fiction· Puerto Rico

The House on the Lagoon

by Rosario Ferré
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
★National Book Award
Published 1995English
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About This Book

When Rosario Ferré published The House on the Lagoon in 1995, it quickly found its place in the broader tradition of literary fiction. A multi-generational saga that explores the complex history of Puerto Rico through the lens of a wealthy family. The novel delves into themes of power, gender, and colonialism, offering a rich tapestry of the island's cultural and political landscape. Ferré's work is notable for its intricate narrative structure and its exploration of the tensions between tradition and modernity. Themes of family dynamics, colonialism, power run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorRosario Ferré
Published1995
Country of Origin🇵🇷 Puerto Rico
LanguageEnglish
Category📖 Literary Fiction
ISBN9780375703956
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

📖 Literary Fiction

Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

Explore all Literary Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇵🇷 Puerto Rico

This book is part of Puerto Rico's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from Puerto Rico →

Editorial Assessment

Rosario Ferré published The House on the Lagoon in 1995, and it has since become one of the more widely recognised works of literary fiction from Puerto Rico. The book's treatment of family dynamics, colonialism, power, gender roles accounts for much of its enduring reputation. Critics and institutions have consistently placed The House on the Lagoon among the notable works of its period. Our aggregate score of 30/100 is compiled from 1 editorial sources that range from Nobel and Booker committees to leading literary journals. Readers coming to The House on the Lagoon for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of family dynamics, colonialism, power, gender roles is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. Within Puerto Rico's literary landscape, Rosario Ferré occupies a significant position. The House on the Lagoon is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

National Book Award
notable · national
19950
✍️
About the Author
Rosario Ferré
Puerto Rico
View Author →

Rosario Ferré is a Puerto Rico author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is The House on the Lagoon about?

A multi-generational saga that explores the complex history of Puerto Rico through the lens of a wealthy family. The novel delves into themes of power, gender, and colonialism, offering a rich tapestry of the island's cultural and political landscape. Ferré's work is notable for its intricate narrative structure and its exploration of the tensions between tradition and modernity.

Who wrote The House on the Lagoon?

The House on the Lagoon was written by Rosario Ferré, from Puerto Rico. First published in 1995.

What awards has The House on the Lagoon won?

The House on the Lagoon has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is The House on the Lagoon worth reading?

The House on the Lagoon is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in family dynamics, colonialism, power.

Where can I buy The House on the Lagoon?

You can buy The House on the Lagoon on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is The House on the Lagoon?

The House on the Lagoon is classified as Literary Fiction. Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

What country is The House on the Lagoon from?

The House on the Lagoon originates from Puerto Rico's literary tradition. Explore more books from Puerto Rico on our country page.

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