Sailor Song
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1992
533
Novel • Fiction
Kuinak, Alaska • Future
1992
Adult
18+ years
Set in the 2020s on a climate-ravaged Earth, Ken Kesey’s speculative fiction novel Sailor Song follows Ike Sallas, a former eco-terrorist now living in the small Alaskan fishing town of Kuinak. As a corporation plans to transform the town into a theme park, Ike and other residents unite to protect their community, navigating tensions that arise from the proposed changes and natural disasters. The book contains themes of eco-terrorism and fatal birth defects due to corporate negligence.
Mysterious
Gritty
Fantastical
Dark
Suspenseful
2,604 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Sailor Song by Ken Kesey receives mixed reviews. Positives highlight its vivid, imaginative storytelling and unique blend of humor and environmental themes, showcasing Kesey's distinctive voice. Critics, however, point to its convoluted plot and uneven pacing, which can detract from the narrative's impact. Fans of Kesey's previous work may still find it worthwhile.
A reader who enjoys Sailor Song by Ken Kesey would appreciate its blend of whimsical storytelling, environmental themes, and countercultural ethos. Comparable to fans of Cannery Row by John Steinbeck and Catch-22 by Joseph Heller, this novel suits those who relish satirical humor, rich character studies, and complex narrative layers.
2,604 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
533
Novel • Fiction
Kuinak, Alaska • Future
1992
Adult
18+ years
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