99 pages • 3 hours read
Cat's Cradle
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Book Brief
179
Novel • Fiction
San Lorenzo • 1960s
1963
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In the early 1960s, writer John investigates the day the U.S. dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima and delves into the life of Dr. Felix Hoenikker, whose invention helped create the bomb. His journey takes him to the fictional island of San Lorenzo, where he learns about the ice-nine substance Dr. Hoenikker created, and the perils it presents. The narrative explores themes of science, technology, and religion against the Cold War backdrop. This text addresses death by suicide and sexual assault.
Mysterious
Dark
Contemplative
Informative
Reviews & Readership
424,188 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Kurt Vonnegut Jr.'s Cat's Cradle merges dark comedy with science fiction, exploring humanity's flaws through satirical prose. Critics applaud its wit and inventive narrative but note its fragmented plot can be disorienting. Its cautionary tale about technology and religion remains resonant, earning praise for Vonnegut's incisive social critique and memorable characters.
Who Should Read Cat's Cradle?
A reader who would enjoy Cat's Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut Jr. is likely someone who appreciates satirical, thought-provoking literature with a blend of dark humor and science fiction. Fans of Slaughterhouse-Five by Vonnegut or Catch-22 by Joseph Heller, which also scrutinize societal issues through a critical and comedic lens, will find it compelling.
424,188 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
179
Novel • Fiction
San Lorenzo • 1960s
1963
Adult
18+ years
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