Scan barcode
A review by charlierhys06
Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
challenging
funny
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
One of the most engaging, thoughtful, funny, ridiculous and contemplative books i’ve ever read. Despite being long and slow paced, I found Hellers writing had me completely absorbed throughout. Where he particularly shined is in his character descriptions, especially the blundering, dim, insecure men in charge - Major Major and Colonel Cathcart were particularly hilarious and painfully realistic.
As many have pointed out, a large flaw of this book is its problematic portrayal of women. While at times I did feel uncomfortable, as a reader I chose to interpret the grotesque male sexuality and violence towards women as critical and as a symptom of the disease of war time and its lawless brutality and poverty. Personally, I feel this view adds another layer to Hellers critique and satire even if it was not intentional.
As many have pointed out, a large flaw of this book is its problematic portrayal of women. While at times I did feel uncomfortable, as a reader I chose to interpret the grotesque male sexuality and violence towards women as critical and as a symptom of the disease of war time and its lawless brutality and poverty. Personally, I feel this view adds another layer to Hellers critique and satire even if it was not intentional.