Plot Summary

The Festival of Insignificance

Milan Kundera
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The Festival of Insignificance

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2013

Book Brief

Milan Kundera

The Festival of Insignificance

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2013
Book Details
Pages

128

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Paris, France • Contemporary

Publication Year

2013

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Festival of Insignificance by Milan Kundera explores the lives of five male friends in Paris through minor incidents, conversations, and inner monologues, primarily narrated by Alain. As they navigate their lives, these friends discuss memories, relationships, and existential themes, often highlighting the role of humor and the absurd. Topics include contemplation of bodily features, deceit about terminal illness, and memories of parental abandonment.

Contemplative

Mysterious

Bittersweet

Humorous

Reviews & Readership

3.8

20,518 ratings

44%

Loved it

38%

Mixed feelings

18%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Milan Kundera's The Festival of Insignificance evokes mixed reactions. Positively, readers appreciate its whimsical and philosophical narrative, showcasing Kundera's signature wit and deep contemplation on trivialities of life. However, some critics find it disjointed and less impactful than his previous works, with a seemingly inconsequential plot that may not resonate with all.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Festival of Insignificance?

Apt for reflective minds, The Festival of Insignificance by Milan Kundera appeals to readers of philosophical fiction who relish existential humor and satire. Admirers of Italo Calvino’s If on a Winter’s Night a Traveler and Albert Camus’ The Stranger will find its exploration of absurdity and human triviality engaging.

3.8

20,518 ratings

44%

Loved it

38%

Mixed feelings

18%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

128

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Paris, France • Contemporary

Publication Year

2013

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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