The Clown
The Clown
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994
Book Brief
BetaThe Clown
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994272
Novel • Fiction
Germany • 1950s
1994
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Clown by Heinrich Böll, translated by Leila Vennewitz and illustrated by Laureano Xoaquín Araujo Cardalda, follows a comedian's struggle with personal and societal issues after a series of setbacks. This story offers a poignant exploration of themes like loss, faith, and the quest for identity.
Reviews & Readership
30,123 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Heinrich Böll's The Clown, translated by Leila Vennewitz and Laureano Xoaquín Araujo Cardalda, portrays a poignant critique of post-war German society through the lens of a disenchanted clown. Reviews commend its incisive social commentary and compelling narrative. However, some note the protagonist's pervasive cynicism as a drawback. Overall, the novel remains impactful and thought-provoking.
Who Should Read The Clown?
A reader who would enjoy The Clown by Heinrich Böll, Laureano Xoaquín Araujo Cardalda, and Leila Vennewitz likely appreciates post-war German literature, existential themes, and complex character studies. Fans of Günter Grass's The Tin Drum or Franz Kafka's The Trial might find this novel similarly compelling.
30,123 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
272
Novel • Fiction
Germany • 1950s
1994
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!