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Gravity's Rainbow

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1973

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Book Brief

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Thomas Pynchon

Gravity's Rainbow

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1973
Book Details
Pages

776

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Europe • 1940s

Publication Year

1973

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Gravity’s Rainbow by Thomas Pynchon is a historical satire set during the last days of World War II, following American soldier Tyrone Slothrop, whose sexual experiences mysteriously correlate with V2 rocket strikes on London and who is pursued by various intelligence officers and psychological researchers for his enigmatic connection to the rockets. The novel contains themes of sexual abuse, colonialism, and war.

Mysterious

Dark

Unnerving

Challenging

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

4.2

47,157 ratings

73%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Gravity's Rainbow by Thomas Pynchon is lauded for its complex narrative and richly detailed prose, which captivate readers who appreciate dense and intellectually challenging literature. However, some find the novel's intricate structure and extensive length daunting, leading to a polarized reception. Overall, it remains a seminal work in postmodern literature despite its challenges.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Gravity's Rainbow?

Readers who enjoy labyrinthine plots, richly layered narratives, and postmodern complexity will be captivated by Thomas Pynchon's Gravity's Rainbow. Comparable works include James Joyce's Ulysses and Don DeLillo's Underworld. Fans of intricate storytelling and historical fiction with a satirical bent will find it particularly engaging.

4.2

47,157 ratings

73%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

776

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Europe • 1940s

Publication Year

1973

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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