27 pages • 54 minutes read
Jonathan Livingston Seagull
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
144
Novella • Fiction
1970
YA
12-18 years
890L
Super Short Summary
Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach follows a young seagull named Jonathan who is passionate about flying and dreams of a higher existence beyond the mundane life of his Flock. Despite being declared an outcast, Jonathan learns to transcend physical limits and discover his true spiritual nature. He returns to Earth to share his knowledge, eventually inspiring other seagulls to pursue their own potential.
Inspirational
Contemplative
Serene
Hopeful
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
271,207 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach is widely praised for its inspirational themes and poetic writing. It encourages readers to pursue their dreams and break free from societal norms. However, some critics argue that it can be overly simplistic and preachy. Overall, it remains a beloved fable for its uplifting message and motivational tale.
Who Should Read Jonathan Livingston Seagull?
Readers who enjoy Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach are typically drawn to inspirational and philosophical tales about self-discovery and the pursuit of higher ideals. Fans of Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist or Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s The Little Prince will find similar themes of personal growth and the quest for meaning.
271,207 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Fletcher Lynd Seagull
Fletcher Lynd Seagull
The first student of Jonathan, who is also made an Outcast for his flying experiments. He becomes a skilled aerobat and takes on the responsibility of spreading Jonathan's teachings.
Chiang (The Elder)
Chiang (The Elder)
A wise and compassionate leader of Jonathan’s second Flock, who helps gulls achieve their potential. He teaches Jonathan important metaphysical concepts and represents Eastern spirituality.
Sullivan Seagull
Sullivan Seagull
Jonathan’s instructor and later friend in the otherworldly realm of Part 2. Initially cautious about Jonathan’s plans, he eventually supports his friend's return to Earth.
144
Novella • Fiction
1970
YA
12-18 years
890L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.