As Conroy entwines the past and present, the reader is carried away by this very engaging story. Although Conroy paints Tom as very human, complete with flaws and strengths, his character is not as memorable as, say perhaps, a Charles Dickens character. However, Conroy's psychological profile of this Southern family is every bit as captivating as that of William Faulkner or Tennessee Williams. The story depicts how easy a family can hide behind a veil of secrets, never daring to allow the light of truth, lest the emotions of guilt and shame overpower one's grip on reality. Yet that is exactly what happens when certain events stay buried, as evident in Savannah's character, and to a lesser degree in...

The book is an enjoyable read and a page turner of suspense. Moreover, it shows the importance of unveiling secrets that haunt the soul and result in walls and barriers of denial and pain. The exchange of healing that takes place between Lowenstein and Tom also shows that no one is beyond the need to expose wounds to the light of day and regain peace. Conroy presents a beautiful story of life and the importance of truth.
Works Cited

Conroy, Pat. The Prince of Tides. Bantam Books. 1987; Pp. 1.