62 pages • 2 hours read
The Adventures of Augie March
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Book Brief
608
Novel • Fiction
Chicago, Illinois • 1930s
1953
Adult
18+ years
1040L
Super Short Summary
The Adventures of Augie March by Saul Bellow chronicles Augie March's life from an underprivileged childhood in Chicago to his waning wanderlust in Paris. His journey includes encounters with colorful characters, various occupations, and romantic entanglements, ultimately leading him to enlist in the Merchant Marines during World War II and marry an actress named Stella, all while exploring themes of identity and self-determination. The book depicts ableist ideas that were prevalent at the time it was written, and characters with disabilities face institutionalization and marginalization.
Adventurous
Contemplative
Humorous
Emotional
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
19,187 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Numerous reviews praise Saul Bellow's The Adventures of Augie March for its rich, vivid prose and dynamic character development, highlighting Bellow's skill in capturing the American spirit. However, some critics mention the narrative's sprawling nature as a downside, noting it can be challenging to follow. Overall, it is celebrated as a literary triumph for its depth and originality.
Who Should Read The Adventures of Augie March?
Readers who appreciate the vibrant, picaresque adventures of Saul Bellow's The Adventures of Augie March typically enjoy novels with richly drawn characters, existential themes, and a quest for identity. Fans of J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye or Jack Kerouac's On the Road will find a similar appeal in Bellow's work.
19,187 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Thea Fenchel
Thea Fenchel
Thea is one of Augie's significant romantic partners, notable for inviting him to Mexico, where they pursue an adventurous, albeit tumultuous, relationship.
Simon March
Simon March
Simon is Augie's brother, characterized by his strong desire for wealth, ultimately choosing to marry into a wealthy family.
Einhorn
Einhorn
Einhorn is a wealthy and influential figure in Augie's life, whom Augie admires for his determination and self-interest despite having a physical disability.
608
Novel • Fiction
Chicago, Illinois • 1930s
1953
Adult
18+ years
1040L
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