33 pages 1 hour read

Aldous Huxley

Island

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1962

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Island by Aldous Huxley explores journalist Will Farnaby's transformation as he recovers from injury on the utopian island of Pala, contrasting its benevolent society with the exploitative capitalism of the West. Through philosophical debates and cultural experiences, including holistic education and hallucinogenic practices, Will's worldview shifts from cynicism to an appreciation for the Palanese way of life. The novel includes offensive language about children with congenital disabilities.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Aldous Huxley's Island receives acclaim for its exploration of utopian themes and philosophical depth, offering rich, thought-provoking ideas. Critics highlight its insightful social commentary and visionary approach. However, some find the narrative pacing slow and the didactic tone off-putting. Overall, it is praised for its imaginative and intellectual engagement.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Island?

A reader who would enjoy Island by Aldous Huxley is intellectually curious, appreciates philosophical and utopian themes, and enjoys exploring human nature and societal structures. Similar readers may have enjoyed works like Brave New World by Huxley, 1984 by George Orwell, and Utopia by Thomas More.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Science-Fiction / Dystopian Fiction

Modern Classic Fiction

British Literature

Themes

Values/Ideas: Power & Greed

Life/Time: Mortality & Death

Society: Colonialism

Topics

Philosophy