A review by jayisreading
The Stranger by Albert Camus

dark reflective medium-paced

3.25

Way back in high school, someone recommended that I read The Stranger for whatever reason. Well, I finally got around to it... over a decade later. As they say, better late than never, right? (Funnily enough, that person will never know that I finally did read it since we’re no longer in touch.)

This is a deceptively simple book, but the absurdist perspective makes it that there’s a lot to think about and analyze. I also imagine people have analyzed this book with colonialism in mind, considering the French presence in Algeria, and I thought it made for an interesting complication in the story. I don’t know if that was Camus’ intention or not, but it was nevertheless something that crossed my mind as I was reading.

Now, when it comes to reading this for pleasure, it’s hard to say this is a gripping novel, or maybe that’s just me. I found the second section interesting, even humorous for a bit, considering the absurdist approach to the trial. Plus, that ending was really thought-provoking, which I suppose is appropriate for Camus. Did it leave me with things to contemplate? Sure. Did I enjoy it? Not really. Would I visit this book again? Possibly, if I’m honest. I certainly will look at Camus’ other works, since absurdism is something that intrigues me. 
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