34 pages 1 hour read

Hermann Hesse

Journey to the East

Fiction | Novella | Adult | Published in 1956

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Hermann Hesse's Journey to the East, the narrator H.H. recounts his participation in a mystical journey as a member of the enigmatic League. The group's purpose and destination remain elusive, and H.H. struggles with his memory and writing. When a servant named Leo disappears, the group disintegrates. Later, H.H. encounters Leo again, revealing Leo's true significance and prompting H.H. to confront his own faith and purpose.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Journey to the East by Hermann Hesse is lauded for its spiritual depth and philosophical insight, offering readers a profound exploration of personal growth and collective striving. However, some critics find the narrative abstract and challenging to penetrate. Despite this, the novel's rich symbolism and reflective nature make it a treasured read for thoughtful audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Journey to the East?

A reader who enjoys reflective and philosophical exploration akin to Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse or the spiritual journey in The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho would appreciate Journey to the East. This reader values profound narrative mysticism, historical allegory, and introspection into the quest for meaning.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Magical Realism

Classic Fiction

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Memory