74 pages • 2 hours read
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
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Book Brief
193
Novel • Fiction
Galaxy • Futuristic
1979
Adult
13-18 years
930L
Super Short Summary
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams follows Arthur Dent, the last surviving Earthman, and Ford Prefect, an alien from Betelgeuse, as they hitch a ride on a spaceship just before the Earth is destroyed by the bureaucratic Vogons for a hyperspatial bypass; they join Ford’s cousin, Zaphod Beeblebrox, and Trillian on their voyage through space. The book contains mentions of depression and death by suicide.
Humorous
Fantastical
Adventurous
Mysterious
Playful
Reviews & Readership
1,916,014 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Douglas Adams' The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy is celebrated for its wit, imaginative narrative, and clever satire. Readers praise its humor and philosophical undertones. Some critics find the plot disjointed and the humor too absurd. Overall, it's a beloved sci-fi classic that resonates with fans of quirky and thought-provoking storytelling.
Who Should Read The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy?
Fans of witty, satirical humor and imaginative science fiction will enjoy The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams. Comparable to Kurt Vonnegut's Slaughterhouse-Five and Terry Pratchett's Discworld series, this novel appeals to readers who appreciate clever absurdity and thought-provoking comedy.
1,916,014 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ford Prefect
Ford Prefect
An alien researcher for The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, stuck on Earth for years before escaping with Arthur. Known for his calm demeanor and indispensable travel knowledge, he serves as a guide through the universe's chaos.
Zaphod Beeblebrox
Zaphod Beeblebrox
The eccentric two-headed President of the Galaxy, known for his flamboyant antics and daring escapades. His unpredictable nature contributes to the group's wild adventures as they travel through space.
Trillian (a.k.a. Patricia MacMillan)
Trillian (a.k.a. Patricia MacMillan)
A smart and adventurous woman with degrees in math and astrophysics who joins the galactic journey. She is the only other human survivor after Earth's demolition and provides an intellectual counterbalance to the rest of the crew.
Marvin the Depressed Android
Marvin the Depressed Android
The Heart of Gold spaceship’s melancholic android, known for his pessimistic outlook. Despite his gloomy disposition, he inadvertently aids the group's survival on their journey.
193
Novel • Fiction
Galaxy • Futuristic
1979
Adult
13-18 years
930L
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