65 pages • 2 hours read
The Beach
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Book Brief
436
Novel • Fiction
Thailand • 1990s
1996
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Beach by Alex Garland, protagonist Richard, born during the Vietnam War, arrives in Bangkok seeking adventure. He finds a map to a mysterious island after the map's owner dies by suicide. Richard, along with two acquaintances, embarks on a journey to this hidden beach. They eventually settle into an isolated community that grows increasingly unstable, leading to catastrophic events and eventual escape. The book includes references to death by suicide, sexual assault, and drug use.
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Adventurous
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
95,593 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Set in the idyllic and mysterious landscape of Thailand, Alex Garland’s The Beach receives praise for its gripping narrative and vivid descriptions. Readers are captivated by the novel’s exploration of human nature and adventure. However, some critics find fault in its characters' lack of depth and the plot's descent into implausibility. Overall, it intrigues with its dark, thought-provoking themes and immersive setting.
Who Should Read The Beach?
Readers who enjoy The Beach by Alex Garland are often drawn to adventurous tales of youthful escapism and existential reflections. Fans of Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer and Lord of the Flies by William Golding will appreciate its blend of travel, camaraderie, and the darker aspects of human nature. Recommended for those who relish exploring moral ambiguity and personal transformation.
95,593 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Etienne
Etienne
A brave and loyal friend of Richard, who travels to the beach with Françoise and maintains a moral compass amidst the island's challenges.
Françoise
Françoise
A bold and adventurous Frenchwoman who joins Richard and Etienne on the journey to the beach and adapts well to island life.
Jed
Jed
Initially a mysterious figure who becomes one of Richard's close friends, known for his time spent in the jungle and his compassion towards others on the island.
Keaty
Keaty
Richard's first friend on the island, known for his love of video games and his ability to find humor in difficult situations, despite causing an incident with a dead squid.
Daffy
Daffy
A pivotal character who leaves a map to the beach for Richard, often appearing as a hallucination and influencing events on the island.
Sal
Sal
The unofficial leader of the beach camp, known for her "Buddha-like" demeanor and willingness to take extreme measures to maintain secrecy.
Bugs
Bugs
Sal’s boyfriend and a founder of the beach, known for his carpentry skills and competitive nature, often clashing with Richard.
The Swedes: Karl, Christo, and Sten
The Swedes: Karl, Christo, and Sten
Three Swedish men who primarily fish on the beach, becoming central to a significant event on the island.
Sammy and Zeph
Sammy and Zeph
Travelers Richard meets in Koh Pha Ngan, notable for their encounter with the island’s harsh realities.
436
Novel • Fiction
Thailand • 1990s
1996
Adult
18+ years
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