BOOK BRIEF

The Double

José Saramago, Margaret Jull Costa
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The Double

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2004

Book Brief

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José Saramago, Margaret Jull Costa

The Double

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

324

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Lisbon, Portugal • Contemporary

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Double by José Saramago, translated by Margaret Jull Costa, explores a person's discovery of an identical look-alike and the ensuing existential and psychological crises. The narrative delves into themes of identity, self-perception, and the nature of reality.

Reviews & Readership

4.0

22,661 ratings

73%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Double by José Saramago, translated by Margaret Jull Costa, offers a fascinating meditation on identity and existence through its surreal narrative. Critics appreciate Saramago's intricate prose and the translation's seamless flow, yet some find the plot slow and the philosophical musings dense. Overall, it is a thought-provoking but challenging read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Double?

Fans of psychological thrillers and philosophical fiction will be enthralled by José Saramago’s The Double, translated by Margaret Jull Costa. Ideal for readers of Dostoevsky’s The Double and Camus's The Stranger, this novel explores themes of identity, existentialism, and reality with a blend of dark humor and profound insight.

4.0

22,661 ratings

73%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

324

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Lisbon, Portugal • Contemporary

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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