56 pages 1 hour read

Kurt Vonnegut Jr.

Mother Night

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1961

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Mother Night by Kurt Vonnegut Jr. tells the story of Howard W. Campbell Jr., a playwright and Nazi propagandist living in Germany during World War II, who is later revealed to be an American spy. While imprisoned in Israel and writing his memoirs, Campbell wrestles with his guilt and identity, haunted by the consequences of his actions and his complex allegiances. The novel explores themes of identity, morality, and the deeply disturbing impact of propaganda.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Kurt Vonnegut Jr.'s Mother Night is widely praised for its dark humor, thought-provoking themes, and complex exploration of identity and morality. Critics appreciate its sharp wit and narrative style but note that its bleak outlook and unsettling subject matter can be challenging. This compelling tale excels in provoking reflection on human nature and ethical dilemmas.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Mother Night?

A reader who would enjoy Kurt Vonnegut Jr.'s Mother Night is likely a fan of dark humor, moral ambiguity, and thought-provoking narratives. They may also appreciate works like Joseph Heller’s Catch-22 and George Orwell’s 1984, which similarly blend satire with poignant social critique.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Science-Fiction / Dystopian Fiction

Humor

American Literature

Topics

Military / War

Period

WWII / World War II

Post Modernism

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Regret

Emotions/Behavior: Guilt

Society: War