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James Hilton

Lost Horizon

James HiltonFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1933

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Book Brief

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James Hilton

Lost Horizon

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1933
Book Details
Pages

164

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Tibetan Himalayas • 1930s

Publication Year

1933

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1060L

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Super Short Summary

In Lost Horizon, a group of Westerners, including Hugh Conway, is kidnapped and transported to the secluded lamasery of Shangri-La in the Tibetan mountains. As they acclimate to the utopian society, they learn of its promise of longevity and peace, provided they never leave. Conway embraces the serenity, while others are restless to return home, leading to tension and eventual attempts to escape. The book contains derogatory terms for Asian people and displays racist and imperialist attitudes toward non-European cultures.

Fantastical

Mysterious

Contemplative

Serene

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

4.2

29,022 ratings

73%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

James Hilton's Lost Horizon is widely praised for its imaginative storytelling and evocative descriptions of the hidden paradise of Shangri-La. Critics commend the book's exploration of timeless themes such as utopia and human nature. However, some find the pacing uneven and the characters underdeveloped. Overall, it remains a thought-provoking classic in adventure literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Lost Horizon?

A reader who enjoys Lost Horizon by James Hilton typically cherishes tales of adventure and philosophical exploration. Fans of works like Life of Pi by Yann Martel and Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad, which delve into the complexities of human nature and utopian themes, will particularly appreciate Hilton's intricate narrative and reflective prose.

4.2

29,022 ratings

73%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

164

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Tibetan Himalayas • 1930s

Publication Year

1933

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1060L

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