Omoo
Omoo
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1847
Book Brief
416
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Polynesia • 1840s
1847
Adult
16-18 years
Super Short Summary
Omoo by Herman Melville follows the author's adventures after being rescued from the island of Typee. He joins the British whaler Julia, which is plagued by an incompetent captain, disease, and a deteriorating ship. After diverting to Tahiti, Melville and some crew members are jailed but later released, allowing them to explore the island. Eventually, Melville finds work on another vessel and leaves for Japan.
Adventurous
Mysterious
Informative
Nostalgic
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
1,115 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Herman Melville's Omoo is celebrated for its vivid storytelling and rich descriptions of Polynesian life, capturing the spirit of adventure and cultural observations. Critics praise its engaging narrative and humor, but note uneven pacing and a lack of narrative depth compared to his later works. Overall, it remains an intriguing exploration of 19th-century seafaring.
Who Should Read Omoo?
A reader who enjoys Omoo by Herman Melville is likely drawn to 19th-century literature, nautical adventures, and cultural exploration. Comparable to readers of Melville’s Typee or Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island, they appreciate detailed depictions of exotic locales, historical context, and introspective narrative.
1,115 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
416
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Polynesia • 1840s
1847
Adult
16-18 years
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