One-line Summary:

In “Manhattan Beach,” Jennifer Egan weaves a captivating tale of a young woman’s journey to find her missing father during World War II, exploring themes of family, identity, and resilience.

A Historical Setting

Set in the 1930s and 1940s, “Manhattan Beach” takes readers on a journey through a tumultuous time in American history. The story primarily revolves around Anna Kerrigan, a young woman living in Brooklyn. Anna’s father, Eddie, used to work as a bagman for a powerful gangster named Dexter Styles, but mysteriously disappeared years ago. As the war rages on, Anna becomes the first female diver at the Brooklyn Naval Yard, a job that allows her to provide for her mother and disabled sister. Through vivid descriptions and meticulous research, Egan paints a vivid picture of the era, capturing the atmosphere of New York City during wartime.

A Quest for Answers

Driven by her desire to uncover the truth about her father’s disappearance, Anna embarks on a quest that leads her to cross paths with Dexter Styles once again. As she navigates the dangerous underworld of organized crime, Anna’s determination and resourcefulness shine through. Egan skillfully intertwines Anna’s personal journey with larger themes of societal expectations, gender roles, and the limitations placed on women during this time period. Through Anna’s character, the author explores the resilience and strength of women in the face of adversity.

Themes of Family and Identity

“Manhattan Beach” delves deep into the complexities of family dynamics and the search for identity. Anna’s relationship with her father is at the heart of the story, as she grapples with her memories of him and the impact his absence has had on her life. Through flashbacks and introspection, Egan reveals the layers of Eddie’s character, highlighting the sacrifices he made and the secrets he kept. The novel also explores the bond between siblings, as Anna cares for her sister, Lydia, who is disabled and communicates through gestures. The challenges faced by Lydia and Anna’s unwavering love for her sister add depth and emotion to the narrative.

Key Takeaways:

• Set in the 1930s and 1940s, “Manhattan Beach” provides a vivid portrayal of New York City during World War II.
• The story follows Anna Kerrigan, a determined young woman who becomes the first female diver at the Brooklyn Naval Yard.
• Anna’s quest to find her missing father leads her into the dangerous world of organized crime.
• The novel explores themes of family, identity, and resilience, highlighting the strength of women during this era.

“She felt the story beneath her skin, its very blood in her veins, and she felt herself part of it.” – Jennifer Egan, Manhattan Beach

In “Manhattan Beach,” Jennifer Egan masterfully combines historical fiction, mystery, and coming-of-age elements to create a compelling narrative. Through Anna Kerrigan’s journey, readers are transported to a bygone era, experiencing the challenges and triumphs of wartime America. Egan’s meticulous research and attention to detail bring the setting to life, while her exploration of family dynamics and the search for identity adds emotional depth to the story. “Manhattan Beach” is a captivating novel that leaves a lasting impression, reminding us of the resilience and strength of individuals in the face of adversity.