46 pages 1 hour read

Cormac McCarthy

The Passenger

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2022

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Passenger by Cormac McCarthy follows Bobby Western, a salvage diver who becomes entangled in a mysterious plane wreck investigation, and his sister Alicia, a mathematical prodigy dealing with schizophrenia and hallucinations. The narrative delves into their struggles with grief, genius, and existential questions, unfolding through philosophical dialogues and disjointed flashbacks. Depictions of suicide, mental health disorders, and insensitive language toward marginalized communities are prominent in the novel.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Passenger by Cormac McCarthy has garnered mixed reviews. Praise centers on McCarthy's masterful prose and complex narrative style, which highlight themes of loss and existentialism. However, some readers find the plot overly convoluted and the character development lacking. This novel will appeal to avid McCarthy fans but might challenge those seeking more straightforward storytelling.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Passenger?

A reader who would enjoy The Passenger by Cormac McCarthy is likely fascinated by existential themes, complex characters, and profound philosophical questions. Fans of McCarthy's other works, such as Blood Meridian and The Road, or readers who appreciate the dense narrative style of Don DeLillo's White Noise, will find this novel compelling.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Mystery / Crime Fiction

Horror / Thriller / Suspense Fiction

Themes

Values/Ideas: Good & Evil

Relationships: Family

Emotions/Behavior: Grief