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Edward Abbey

The Monkey Wrench Gang

Edward AbbeyFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1975

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Book Brief

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Edward Abbey

The Monkey Wrench Gang

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1975
Book Details
Pages

480

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

American Southwest • 1970s

Publication Year

1975

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

860L

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Super Short Summary

Written by environmental advocate Edward Abbey in 1975, The Monkey Wrench Gang tells the story of a motley crew of environmental activists fighting industrialization in the American Southwest. Doc, Bonnie, Hayduke, and Smith join forces to sabotage construction projects, targeting developers, politicians, and resource extraction companies. Their ultimate goal is the destruction of Glen Canyon Dam, culminating in a series of high-stakes sabotage missions.

Adventurous

Gritty

Suspenseful

Humorous

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.3

29,619 ratings

77%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Edward Abbey's The Monkey Wrench Gang garners acclaim for its bold environmental themes, vivid descriptions, and spirited characters committed to sabotaging development in the American Southwest. Critics, however, note occasional lapses into didacticism and uneven pacing. Overall, the novel's passionate advocacy for nature and relentless energy make it a compelling read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Monkey Wrench Gang?

Readers who relish environmental activism with a dose of humor and adventure will enjoy The Monkey Wrench Gang by Edward Abbey. They likely appreciate works like The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain and Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk for their rebellious spirit and strong character voices.

4.3

29,619 ratings

77%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

480

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

American Southwest • 1970s

Publication Year

1975

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

860L

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