The Bridge of San Luis Rey

Interesting Facts

• The book begins with the collapse of a bridge in Peru, which becomes the central event around which the entire plot is constructed.
• Each of the five victims of the bridge collapse has their own unique story, which the author reveals in separate chapters.
• The novel explores themes of fate, chance, and divine intervention, questioning why these particular people were on the bridge at the moment of its collapse.
• The book won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1928.
• One of the key characters is Brother Juniper, a monk who tries to understand why God allowed this tragedy.
• The novel has been adapted into several theatrical productions and films, demonstrating its enduring influence on culture.
• The work combines elements of philosophy, religion, and psychology, making it multi-layered and profound.