A Bell for Adano
A Bell for Adano
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1944
Book Brief
288
Novel • Fiction
Sicily, Italy • 1940s
1944
Adult
14+ years
750L
Super Short Summary
A Bell for Adano by John Hersey follows Major Victor Joppolo, the temporary American administrator of the Italian town of Adano during the 1943 Allied occupation, as he strives to bring compassion and justice after the fall of the Fascist regime, focusing on providing necessities and replacing the town's confiscated bell.
Informative
Heartwarming
Challenging
Emotional
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
9,047 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
John Hersey's A Bell for Adano is widely praised for its poignant storytelling and insightful character development. Critics laud its vivid depiction of post-WWII Italy and the humane leadership of Major Joppolo. Some find the narrative predictably optimistic, yet overall, Hersey's work remains a celebrated reflection on American values and wartime resilience.
Who Should Read A Bell for Adano?
A reader who enjoys historical fiction with a strong moral core would appreciate A Bell for Adano by John Hersey. Fans of To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee or The Caine Mutiny by Herman Wouk may find similar satisfaction in its compassionate and insightful look at human nature during wartime.
9,047 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
288
Novel • Fiction
Sicily, Italy • 1940s
1944
Adult
14+ years
750L
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