41 pages • 1 hour read
One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich
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Book Brief
One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1962208
Novel • Fiction
Siberian Labor Camp • 1950s
1962
Adult
16+ years
900L
Super Short Summary
One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich, first published in 1962 by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, chronicles a day in the life of Ivan Denisovich Shukhov, a prisoner in a Soviet labor camp. The novel depicts the harsh conditions and daily struggles faced by the inmates, yet also highlights Shukhov's resilience and resourcefulness. Through detailed descriptions of camp life, Solzhenitsyn exposes the human cost of Stalinist repression.
Gritty
Dark
Challenging
Melancholic
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
122,638 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn is lauded for its stark portrayal of Soviet labor camp life, reflecting human resilience against dehumanizing conditions. Critics praise its vivid detail and emotional depth. Some note the narrative's bleakness and repetitive elements. Overall, it remains a powerful, insightful read into Soviet history.
Who Should Read One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich?
A reader who would enjoy One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn is likely interested in Soviet history, human resilience, and the struggles of life under oppressive regimes. Fans of George Orwell's 1984 and Elie Wiesel's Night would appreciate its stark and powerful narrative.
122,638 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Andrei Tiurin
Andrei Tiurin
The squad leader of the 104th, described as a serious and effective leader, who ensures better conditions for his squad members.
Pavlo
Pavlo
The deputy squad leader of the 104th, who assists Tiurin and takes on leadership roles within the squad.
Buinovsky
Buinovsky
A new prisoner in the 104th, a former naval officer struggling to adapt to the camp environment.
Fetuikov
Fetuikov
The lowest-ranking member of the 104th, perceived as lazy and self-serving.
Gopchik
Gopchik
A young and eager Ukrainian prisoner, likened to a puppy, who cunningly preserves his food supply.
Tzesar Markovich
Tzesar Markovich
A young filmmaker and favored member of the squad, known for receiving packages of food and sharing them with his fellow prisoners.
Senka Klevshin
Senka Klevshin
A quiet prisoner, deaf in one ear, notable for his humility and adherence to rules during harsh conditions.
Pantaleyev
Pantaleyev
A prisoner who avoids work by informing on others to the guards, securing benefits such as sick call slots.
Der
Der
A prisoner who serves as a foreman, treating fellow convicts poorly while enjoying privileges and power.
The Limper
The Limper
A favored prisoner with a limp, acting as the mess orderly, known for maintaining order by force.
208
Novel • Fiction
Siberian Labor Camp • 1950s
1962
Adult
16+ years
900L
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