62 pages 2 hours read

Joseph Heller

Catch-22

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1961

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Catch-22 by Joseph Heller follows Captain Yossarian, a US Army Air Force bombardier stationed on an Italian island during World War II, as he tries to avoid dangerous combat missions. Faced with the paradox that his desire to evade danger proves his sanity, Yossarian's attempts to be grounded are thwarted, while the military's increasing mission quotas prevent anyone from returning home. Be advised that Catch-22 depicts graphic violence, sexual assault, and substance use.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Catch-22 by Joseph Heller is praised for its dark humor, satirical depiction of war, and innovative narrative structure. Critics commend its commentary on bureaucracy and absurdity. However, some readers find the non-linear plot and repetitiveness challenging. Overall, it is celebrated as a groundbreaking work of 20th-century literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Catch-22?

A reader who enjoys provocatively satirical narratives and dark humor would appreciate Catch-22 by Joseph Heller. Fans of Kurt Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse-Five and George Orwell’s 1984 will find the absurdity and critique of war and bureaucracy engaging. The novel appeals to those who appreciate complex characters and thought-provoking themes.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Lexile Level

1140L

Book Details

Genre

Classic Fiction

Historical Fiction

American Literature

Topics

Military / War

Trauma / Abuse / Violence

History: World

Themes

Identity: Mental Health

Values/Ideas: Religion & Spirituality

Values/Ideas: Safety & Danger