52 pages 1 hour read

Paul Bowles

The Sheltering Sky

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1949

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Sheltering Sky by Paul Bowles follows an American couple, Port and Kit Moresby, traveling through post-World War II North Africa alongside their friend Tunner. Seeking greater self-understanding, they journey deeper into the Sahara Desert, encountering tension, existential despair, cultural clashes, and personal tragedy along the way. The narrative explores profound themes against the backdrop of North Africa's vast desert landscapes. References to rape, violence, and forced captivity of a female character are present.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Sheltering Sky by Paul Bowles offers a haunting exploration of existential angst set in the Sahara Desert. Critics praised its vivid prose and atmospheric settings but noted that its complex themes and detached characters may not appeal to all readers. Those fascinated by psychological depth and profound isolation will find it compelling.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Sheltering Sky?

Readers who enjoy existential and philosophical themes, immersive and evocative prose, and settings that explore cultural dislocation would appreciate The Sheltering Sky by Paul Bowles. Fans of Albert Camus' The Stranger and Ernest Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises will find this narrative compelling and thought-provoking.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Psychological Fiction

American Literature

Themes

Society: Colonialism

Relationships: Marriage

Life/Time: Mortality & Death

Period

Post-War Era

Colonialism / Postcolonialism

Topics

Trauma / Abuse / Violence

Love / Sexuality