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50 pages 1 hour read

The Wall

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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John Lanchester

The Wall

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Britain • Future

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Wall by John Lanchester follows Joseph Kavanagh, a young Defender tasked with protecting the United Kingdom's Wall built to stave off climate refugees, called Others, in a dystopian future ravaged by severe climate change. As Joseph navigates the harsh life on the Wall, he grapples with his role, survivor guilt, and societal inequities, ultimately finding companionship and reflecting on the blurred lines between Defenders and Others. Violence and severe weather events are depicted.

Mysterious

Dark

Unnerving

Suspenseful

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

3.8

23,406 ratings

60%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

John Lanchester's The Wall receives mixed reviews. Critics praise its gripping dystopian premise and stark warnings on climate change and xenophobia. However, some find its characters underdeveloped and narrative pacing uneven. The novel effectively provokes thought on contemporary issues but may leave some readers wanting deeper character exploration.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Wall?

Readers who enjoy dystopian narratives with social commentary will be captivated by John Lanchester's The Wall. Fans of George Orwell's 1984 and Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale will appreciate its exploration of isolation and societal upheaval. This book delves into contemporary anxieties through a compelling, speculative lens.

3.8

23,406 ratings

60%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Character List

Joseph Kavanagh

Joseph is a Defender who starts as an ambitious young man longing to move up in a society restricted by a massive Wall. Over time, he grapples with various challenges that push his understanding and connections with others.

An authoritative figure on the Wall, the Captain initially serves as a mentor to Joseph, providing strict guidance for survival. He is a formidable and stoic presence who helps Joseph navigate the harsh realities of life as a Defender.

A reclusive and resourceful man who lives in isolation in an energy installation. He aids Joseph and Hifa by sharing his resources and survival story through written notes.

Joseph’s romantic interest, a pragmatic woman with dreams of making life bearable on the Wall by encouraging procreation. She is known for her skilled work and use of nets in their floating community.

A fellow Defender who is a thoughtful and intellectual contrast to Joseph with a shared resemblance. He balances living in the present with planning for the future and is known for his survival skills during attacks.

An ambitious young politician who initially draws contempt from Joseph for his lack of authenticity. Joseph seeks to align with him as a means to achieve his own aspirations of power and privilege.

The cook for Joseph’s company, known for her friendly disposition towards her peers and dream of opening a restaurant. Her role is largely defined by her duties in the kitchen.

Joseph’s term for his parents' generation, symbolizing those who avoided confronting climate change seriously. They are characterized by their apologies and ineffective responses that fail to address societal issues.

A hardened Defender and mentor to Joseph who embodies the no-nonsense style of leadership. He guides new recruits with experience from his previous tours on the Wall.

Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Britain • Future

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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