32 pages • 1 hour read
The Moon Is Down
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Book Brief
144
Novel • Fiction
Occupied village, Europe • World War II
1942
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Moon Is Down by John Steinbeck examines the psychological and moral struggles of a northern European town under the occupation of authoritarian forces led by Colonel Lanser during wartime, highlighting the townspeople’s resistance efforts, led by Mayor Orden and Doctor Winter, against their oppressors, culminating in covert acts of sabotage to reclaim their freedom. The novel contains depictions of wartime violence and execution.
Dark
Suspenseful
Mysterious
Challenging
Informative
Reviews & Readership
31,703 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
John Steinbeck's The Moon Is Down garners praise for its compelling portrayal of resistance and human spirit under occupation. Its concise narrative and strong character development are lauded, though some critique its lack of depth in exploring the occupiers' perspectives. Overall, it remains a powerful, thought-provoking wartime novel.
Who Should Read The Moon Is Down?
A reader who enjoys The Moon Is Down by John Steinbeck likely appreciates historical fiction and insightful depictions of human resilience under occupation. Fans of George Orwell's Nineteen Eighty-Four and Ernest Hemingway's For Whom the Bell Tolls will find its exploration of resistance and moral complexity compelling.
31,703 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Colonel Lanser
Colonel Lanser
A seasoned military officer leading the occupying forces, characterized by his commitment to following orders and duty.
Mr. Corell
Mr. Corell
A local shopkeeper who betrays the town to the occupying forces, acting with motives driven by self-interest.
Captain Bentick
Captain Bentick
A member of Colonel Lanser's staff who is laidback and has an affinity for British culture.
Captain Loft
Captain Loft
An officer under Lanser who is enthusiastic about military codes and orderliness.
Major Hunter
Major Hunter
Part of Lanser's staff, characterized by his military enthusiasm and respect for protocol.
Lieutenant Tonder
Lieutenant Tonder
A youthful and idealistic member of Lanser's staff, whose expectations are challenged by the realities of occupation.
Lieutenant Prackle
Lieutenant Prackle
An idealistic young officer under Lanser who grapples with the moral implications of their mission.
Joseph
Joseph
An elderly, orderly head of Mayor Orden's household staff, who plays a key role in supporting the town's resistance.
Annie
Annie
The mayor's cook, known for her fiery temper and active role in resisting the occupation.
144
Novel • Fiction
Occupied village, Europe • World War II
1942
Adult
18+ years
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