Review of 'Catch 22'

Catch 22 by Joseph Heller

A classic of modern novels this follows the strange life of Yossarian, stationed in Pianosa during the second world war. A series of strange, bizzare events seem to occur in his life as he struggles to escape the war he loathes. It is amusing to see every effort he makes is thwarted by more absurdities than you previously thought imaginable (such as the ever-increasing number of missions that must be flown before you can be sent home or the completely incompetent officers in charge). It seems that all of the people in this novel are insane or just pretending TO be sane. Written as a series of chapters relating (relatively) isolated events the novel is very amusing if a bit difficult to follow in parts (I got lost with the various colonals, generals, etc that are encountered). There are some terrible moments that Heller relates with complete seriousness giving you a true insight into the realities of the situation. A very interesting and intriguing book but not one to be taken lightly.

Rating: “Really good but I have some issues”

Genre: General Fiction