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Thomas Pynchon

The Crying of Lot 49

Thomas PynchonFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1966

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Book Brief

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Thomas Pynchon

The Crying of Lot 49

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1966
Book Details
Pages

152

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

California • 1960s

Publication Year

1966

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1060L

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Super Short Summary

In The Crying of Lot 49 by Thomas Pynchon, Oedipa Maas uncovers a centuries-old conspiracy involving rival mail-delivery firms while serving as the executor of her ex-boyfriend's estate, leading her on a surreal investigation through 1960s California counterculture. The novel discusses individuals with addiction, substance use, mental health issues, and suicide.

Mysterious

Unnerving

Contemplative

Dark

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

3.9

91,259 ratings

61%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Thomas Pynchon's The Crying of Lot 49 intrigues with its complex narrative and rich symbolism, earning praise for its innovative storytelling and capturing mid-20th-century paranoia. However, some find its dense plotting and elusive meaning frustrating. The novel's brevity offers an accessible entry into Pynchon's work.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Crying of Lot 49?

Readers who enjoy The Crying of Lot 49 by Thomas Pynchon typically appreciate complex, postmodern narratives with elements of conspiracy and satire. Fans of Pynchon's work often also enjoy books like Gravity's Rainbow by Thomas Pynchon and Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace. These readers relish intricate plotting and deep, thought-provoking themes.

3.9

91,259 ratings

61%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

152

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

California • 1960s

Publication Year

1966

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1060L

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