I Capture the Castle Book Summary

In 'I Capture the Castle,' we are swept into the charming yet chaotic life of Cassandra Mortmain, a witty and imaginative teenage girl living in a crumbling Gothic castle. As her family grapples with financial woes and romantic entanglements, Cassandra hones her writing skills while navigating the complexities of love and longing. The arrival of wealthy American brothers brings unexpected excitement and upheaval, challenging her perceptions of class and desire. Through Cassandra's poignant observations and clever storytelling, the novel explores themes of self-discovery and the whimsical nature of youth. Will she find her own voice and a way to capture the elusive happiness she yearns for?

By Dodie Smith

Published: 1948

"I am so glad that I have the chance to live and describe something that I feel deeply about, however ordinary it may seem to others."

Book Review of I Capture the Castle

One of the 20th Century's most beloved novels is still winning hearts I Capture the Castle tells the story of seventeen-year-old Cassandra and her family, who live in not-so-genteel poverty in a ramshackle old English castle. Here she strives, over six turbulent months, to hone her writing skills. She fills three notebooks with sharply funny yet poignant entries. Her journals candidly chronicle the great changes that take place within the castle's walls, and her own first descent into love. By the time she pens her final entry, she has "captured the castle"-- and the heart of the reader-- in one of literature's most enchanting entertainments. "This book has one of the most charismatic narrators I've ever met." -- J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter series Bonus: Reading Group Discussion Guide included in this edition

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I am so glad that I have the chance to live and describe something that I feel deeply about, however ordinary it may seem to others.

I Capture the Castle

By Dodie Smith