The Parasites by Daphne du Maurier

This novel delves into the complex lives of three siblings, two sisters and a brother, who have grown up in the shadow of their parents' glamorous careers in the arts. As they navigate adulthood, their intertwined lives and the unconventional upbringing they experienced under the spotlight of their parents' fame come to the forefront. The narrative explores themes of identity, dependency, and the search for individuality, as the siblings grapple with their own talents and desires while being labeled as "parasites" by those who view them as merely living off the legacy of their parents. Through a blend of introspection and drama, the story examines the nuances of family dynamics, love, and the struggle to forge one's path in the world.

The 4151st greatest book of all time


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Total Points: 96

Since this book was first published in 1949, there is a penalty of 0%. The age adjusted score is 96.0.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.