52 pages 1 hour read

Sloan Wilson

The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1955

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Sloan Wilson's novel, The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit, Tom Rath, a World War II veteran living in Westport, Connecticut with his family, navigates financial struggles and job dissatisfaction while dealing with past war trauma and secrets. His pursuit of a better job at UBC exacerbates tension at home, but ultimately, he seeks balance between his career and personal values. The book describes suicide, alcohol misuse, and mental health conditions linked to war trauma.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit by Sloan Wilson receives praise for its incisive portrayal of 1950s corporate America and the struggles of balancing career and personal life. Critics applaud its relevance and character depth, but some note a slow pace and dated cultural context. Overall, it's valued for its authenticity and insightful social commentary.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit?

Readers who appreciate mid-20th-century American fiction, particularly those who enjoyed Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates or Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger, will find The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit compelling. It explores the complexities of post-war American life, career anxieties, and suburban malaise in a straightforward, relatable manner.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

American Literature

Historical Fiction

Classic Fiction

Topics

History: World

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Loneliness

Emotions/Behavior: Memory

Emotions/Behavior: Regret