Choke
Choke
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2001
Book Brief
304
Novel • Fiction
Contemporary
2001
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Choke by Chuck Palahniuk follows the story of Victor Mancini, a man with a sex addiction who funds his mother’s hospital care by pretending to choke in restaurants to elicit money from his “rescuers.” As he deals with his mother's Alzheimer's, Victor grapples with his chaotic past and questions of identity, while exploring relationships with friends and healthcare professionals. Mention of sexual addiction, mental health issues, and non-consensual acts appears in the novel.
Dark
Unnerving
Gritty
Mysterious
Humorous
Reviews & Readership
217,175 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Chuck Palahniuk's Choke delivers a darkly comedic exploration of addiction, identity, and survival. Praised for its satirical wit and sharp social commentary, the novel captivates with its unflinching look at humanity. However, critics note that its explicit content and gritty style may alienate some readers. Overall, Choke is provocative and thought-provoking, resonating with fans of transgressive fiction.
Who Should Read Choke?
A reader who would enjoy Choke by Chuck Palahniuk likely appreciates dark humor, satirical takes on societal issues, and complex, flawed characters. Fans of Fight Club, also by Palahniuk, or American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis, who seek gritty, thought-provoking narratives with twisted plots, would find this book engaging.
217,175 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
304
Novel • Fiction
Contemporary
2001
Adult
18+ years
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