The Flamethrowers Book Summary

In 'The Flamethrowers', Rachel Kushner weaves a captivating tale centered around a young woman's quest for identity amidst the chaos of 1970s art and motorcycle culture. Set against the backdrop of the Italian radical left and the gritty glamour of New York's art scene, the protagonist navigates love, ambition, and political upheaval. The novel intertwines themes of rebellion and creation, challenging the boundaries of art and activism. As she delves deeper into her passions and relationships, sparks will fly—both literally and metaphorically. Join her thrilling journey where the flames of desire and danger ignite a powerful exploration of freedom and artistry.

By Rachel Kushner

Published: 2014

""The past is a foreign country; they do things differently there.""

Book Review of The Flamethrowers

Arriving in New York to pursue a creative career in the raucous 1970s art scene, Reno joins a group of dreamers and raconteurs before falling in love with the estranged son of an Italian motorcycle scion and succumbing to a radical social movement in 1977 Italy.

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"The past is a foreign country; they do things differently there."

The Flamethrowers

By Rachel Kushner