Literary Fiction· United Kingdom
The Magician
by William Somerset MaughamAggregate Editorial Score40/100
#3,036of 99,626 books
Kirkus Reviews
Published 1908English
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Published in 1908, The Magician established William Somerset Maugham as one of the defining voices in literary fiction. Published in 1908, The Magician by William Somerset Maugham is a landmark work of literary fiction that explores the complexities of human experience with depth and nuance.
Book Details
About the Category
📖 Literary Fiction
Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.
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🇬🇧 United Kingdom
This book is part of United Kingdom's rich literary tradition.
Explore books from United Kingdom →Editorial Assessment
The Magician by William Somerset Maugham sits within the tradition of literary fiction that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 1908 in United Kingdom, it engages with the human condition in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention.
With an editorial score of 40/100 drawn from 1 independent sources, the book occupies a well-documented position in the critical literature. Its recognition spans international prizes, "best of" lists, and academic surveys.
The appeal of The Magician lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of the human condition is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page.
The Magician reflects William Somerset Maugham's place in a wider literary tradition. The book's concerns resonate with United Kingdom's broader cultural preoccupations, even as they reach beyond any single national context.
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
Kirkus Reviews
notable · national
190840
William Somerset Maugham is a United Kingdom author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.
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