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53 pages 1 hour read

Graham Greene

The Quiet American

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1955

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Quiet American by Graham Greene is set in Vietnam during French colonialism and follows Thomas Fowler, an English journalist entangled in a love triangle with an American intelligence agent, Alden Pyle, and a Vietnamese woman, Phuong. The story explores themes of political intrigue, war, and complex human relationships through Fowler's interactions with Pyle and Phuong amid the backdrop of Vietnam's struggle for independence. Includes violence and themes of political conflict.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Graham Greene's The Quiet American is praised for its compelling narrative and profound exploration of political themes. Reviewers commend its insightful commentary on American foreign policy and moral ambiguity, though some criticize its pacing and character development. Overall, it remains a powerful, thought-provoking read with enduring relevance.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Quiet American?

A reader who enjoys The Quiet American by Graham Greene likely appreciates political intrigue, moral ambiguity, and complex characters. Fans of works like The Spy Who Came in from the Cold by John le Carré or Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad, which delve into the darker aspects of human nature and imperialism, may find it particularly engaging.

Book Details
Pages

180

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Vietnam • 1950s

Publication Year

1955

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

800L

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