In Philip Roth's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel "American Pastoral," we delve into the idyllic life of Seymour "Swede" Levov, a successful Jewish businessman in post-World War II Newark. His perfect American Dream shatters when his daughter Merry becomes a radical activist, plunging them into chaos and despair. Swede's quest to understand her transformation unveils the turbulent social upheavals of the era, blending personal tragedy with larger cultural conflicts. As he confronts the stark realities of his once-beloved America, readers are drawn into a gripping exploration of identity, loss, and the pursuit of meaning. Will Swede find a way to reconcile his past with the present, or is the ideal of America forever lost?
By Philip Roth
Published: 1998
""What a world! A world where we live in a society and yet feel so utterly alone in our dreams and desires.""
PULITZER PRIZE WINNER • NATIONAL BESTSELLER • From one of the most acclaimed writers of the twentieth century—a compulsively readable elegy for America’s promises of prosperity, civic order, and domestic bliss, and "one of Roth's most powerful novels ever" (The New York Times). Here is Philip Roth's masterpiece, featuring Nathan Zuckerman and the story of Swede Levov, a legendary athlete at his Newark high school, who grows up in the booming postwar years to marry a former Miss New Jersey, inherit his father's glove factory, and move into a stone house in the idyllic hamlet of Old Rimrock. And then one day in 1968, Swede's beautiful American luck deserts him. For Swede's adored daughter, Merry, has grown from a loving, quick-witted girl into a sullen, fanatical teenager—a teenager capable of an outlandishly savage act of domestic terrorism. And overnight Swede is wrenched out of the longed-for American pastoral and into the indigenous American berserk. Compulsively readable, propelled by sorrow, rage, and a deep compassion for its characters, American Pastoral gives us Philip Roth at the height of his powers.
Showing 8 of 28 similar books
Neil deGrasse Tyson is a renowned astrophysicist, author, and science communicator, best known for his work in popularizing science through various media. As the director of the Hayden Planetarium in New York City, he has played a pivotal role in bringing astronomical discoveries to the public. Tyson has authored several bestselling books, including "Astrophysics for People in a Hurry" and "The Pluto Files," which have made complex scientific concepts accessible to a broad audience. He is also the host of the popular science TV show "Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey," a continuation of Carl Sagan's groundbreaking series. Tyson's contributions have significantly enhanced public understanding and appreciation of the universe.
Alain de Botton is a Swiss-British philosopher, author, and founder of The School of Life, an organization dedicated to teaching emotional intelligence and life skills. De Botton’s books, such as The Consolations of Philosophy and How Proust Can Change Your Life, blend philosophy with everyday life, offering practical wisdom on love, work, and happiness. His work has popularized philosophy, making it accessible to a wider audience. De Botton is also a public speaker and essayist, frequently exploring topics related to human fulfillment and personal growth. His unique approach to philosophy has made him a respected voice in contemporary culture.
Abi Tyas Tunggal is a distinguished author known for his impactful contributions to contemporary literature and digital content. He has garnered acclaim for his insightful storytelling and adept handling of complex themes, resonating with a diverse readership. Tunggal's work often explores the intersections of technology, society, and human experience, making him a prominent voice in modern narrative arts. Beyond his literary achievements, he is also recognized for his innovative use of digital platforms to engage with and expand his audience. Tunggal continues to influence the literary landscape with his thought-provoking and accessible writing.
Alicia Keys, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist, has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and compelling lyrics. She burst onto the scene with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which earned her five Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also a celebrated author; her memoir "More Myself: A Journey" provides an intimate look at her life and career. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, co-founding the Keep a Child Alive organization to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. Alicia Keys continues to inspire through her artistry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.
Julie Stevanja is an accomplished entrepreneur and author, best known for co-founding the innovative activewear brand Stylerunner. Her leadership in the fashion industry has earned her recognition as a trailblazer in e-commerce and retail. Stevanja's insights into business and innovation are encapsulated in her writing, where she shares strategies and experiences that inspire budding entrepreneurs. In addition to her business acumen, she frequently contributes to various publications, offering advice on leadership and industry trends. Her influence extends beyond fashion, as she continues to empower others through her thoughtful and practical guidance.
Gaby Goldberg is an investor and Web3 advocate, focusing on the intersection of consumer technology, culture, and decentralized finance (DeFi). She works with TCG (The Chernin Group), where she invests in companies that are shaping the future of digital platforms and social communities. Goldberg is passionate about how blockchain technology can empower creators and foster new forms of ownership and collaboration. She is also a vocal advocate for women in tech and frequently shares insights on the future of the internet and decentralized systems. Her work positions her as a key figure in the growing Web3 and crypto ecosystems.
Alexey Moiseenkov is a Russian entrepreneur and tech innovator best known for creating Prisma, the groundbreaking mobile app that transforms photos into artworks using artificial intelligence. Though not primarily a literary figure, his work in AI and digital transformation has influenced contemporary discussions on the intersection of technology and art. Moiseenkov's contributions have been featured in various tech and innovation journals, highlighting his impact on modern digital culture. His work underscores the evolving narrative of creativity in the digital age, bridging the gap between artistic expression and technological advancement. Moiseenkov continues to inspire through his ongoing ventures in AI and entrepreneurship.
Jacinda Ardern is a prominent New Zealand politician who served as the 40th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 2017 to 2023. Known for her empathetic leadership, she garnered international acclaim for her handling of the Christchurch mosque shootings in 2019, promoting unity and compassion. Ardern also led New Zealand through the COVID-19 pandemic with a strong public health response. In addition to her political career, she has contributed to literature by authoring several speeches and articles that reflect her progressive values and leadership philosophy. Her legacy includes significant strides in social welfare, climate change policy, and child poverty reduction.
Showing 8 of 23 related collections
“"What a world! A world where we live in a society and yet feel so utterly alone in our dreams and desires."”
American Pastoral
By Philip Roth
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Philip Roth (1933-2018) was an acclaimed American novelist and short story writer, noted for his distinctive and often controversial exploration of Jewish identity, sexuality, and American society. Some of his most notable works include 'Portnoy's Complaint,' 'American Pastoral,' and 'The Human Stain,' which often blend autobiographical elements with fictional narratives. Roth's writing style is characterized by its sharp wit, psychological depth, and a keen sense of social critique, making him one of the most important literary figures of the 20th century.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In 'The Greatest Salesman in the World,' Og Mandino unveils a timeless tale of a poor camel boy who transforms into a prosperous salesman through ancient scrolls of wisdom. Each scroll imparts invaluable lessons on persistence, love, and the power of habits, reshaping his life and ambition. As he deciphers these secrets, the reader is drawn into a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. This book promises to elevate not only your sales skills but also your perception of success and fulfillment. Are you ready to unlock the secrets that could change your life forever?
In 'The General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money,' John Maynard Keynes challenges the classical economics that dominated before the Great Depression. He introduces revolutionary ideas about how government intervention can stabilize economies and control unemployment. Through compelling arguments, he dissects the causes of economic fluctuations and proposes innovative solutions. Keynes's work not only reshapes the understanding of macroeconomics but also ignites debates that resonate even today. Are his insights the key to unlocking a prosperous economic future or just a theory lost in complexity?
In "What Technology Wants," Kevin Kelly delves into the deep interplay between humanity and technology, suggesting that technology is an extension of life itself. He argues that just like biological evolution, technology has its own agenda and desires, shaping our future in profound ways. Through a blend of philosophical insights and real-world examples, Kelly reveals how technological advancements reflect our aspirations and fears. As he explores the notion of 'the technium'—a vast, interconnected web of technology—readers are invited to reconsider their relationship with the tools they create. This thought-provoking journey challenges us to embrace technology as a living entity that influences and drives our evolution.
In 'Team of Teams', General Stanley McChrystal reveals how traditional organizational structures can hinder adaptability in fast-changing environments. Drawing on his military experiences, he shares the transformation of Special Operations forces into a network of interconnected teams capable of responding to complex challenges. The book emphasizes the power of trust, empowerment, and communication within teams to foster resilience and innovation. McChrystal's insights apply beyond the battlefield; they resonate within any organization facing modern challenges. Will your team embrace this revolutionary approach to thrive in chaos?
In 'The Antidote', Barry Werth unveils the thrilling true story behind a revolutionary cancer drug and the unconventional journey that led to its creation. With a cast of relentless scientists, ambitious entrepreneurs, and the fierce human spirit fighting against time, the narrative exposes the battle between innovation and regulation in the pharmaceutical industry. As hopes rise and fall, the stakes escalate, revealing the profound consequences of medical advancements on real lives. This gripping tale not only highlights the complexities of drug development but also challenges our understanding of survival and ethics in healthcare. Prepare to be captivated by a world where each decision could mean life or death.
In 'The Devil in the White City,' Erik Larson intertwines the captivating story of the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago with the chilling tale of a serial killer who exploits the city's excitement. As the fair dazzles millions with its architectural wonders and innovations, darkness lurks in its shadows. The narrative paints a vivid picture of ambition, obsession, and the contrasting duality of human nature. Readers will grapple with the intertwining fates of genius and monstrosity in a city transformed by both vision and villainy. This gripping historical thriller leaves you questioning how the brightest lights can cast the darkest shadows.
In 'If on a Winter's Night a Traveller,' Italo Calvino invites you on a mesmerizing journey through the labyrinth of storytelling itself. As you, the reader, navigate a series of disconnected narratives, the boundaries between reality and fiction blur tantalizingly. Each chapter uncovers a new plot, each more intriguing than the last, challenging your perception of what a novel can be. With its playful prose and enigmatic structure, Calvino crafts a celebration of literature's power to captivate and confound. Prepare to be entranced by a book that is as much about the experience of reading as it is about the stories it tells.
In 'The 5 Levels of Leadership', John C. Maxwell unveils a transformative roadmap for personal and professional growth. Each level represents a unique stage of leadership that emphasizes the importance of influence, relationships, and development. Maxwell illustrates how aspiring leaders can ascend from positional authority to genuine respect, unlocking their full potential along the way. With engaging anecdotes and practical wisdom, this book challenges conventional leadership paradigms and ignites a passion for lifelong learning. Are you ready to discover how to elevate your leadership journey to new heights?
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
