Libra

by Don DeLillo
Libra cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Historical Fiction
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Paperback • £8.99–£10.99
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Format • £10.44
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Technical
  • ID: 2367
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9780141911854
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2018-06-07
  • Formats: 8
  • Reviews: 3

Libra weaves together the troubled life of Lee Harvey Oswald with the shadowy world of a CIA conspiracy, creating a compelling narrative that blurs the lines between history and fiction. The novel delves into Oswald's psyche, portraying him as a troubled adolescent who believes himself to be an agent of history. Meanwhile, discontented CIA operatives see him as a pawn in their plot to force the nation to confront communism. The story is a masterful exploration of the dark events that have shaped and continue to haunt American history. /n/n Don DeLillo's Libra is not just a thriller but a profound examination of the American psyche, blending meticulous research with imaginative storytelling. The novel's unique structure and its blend of fact and fiction make it a standout work in contemporary literature, offering readers a thought-provoking journey through one of the most pivotal moments in U.S. history.

Reviews
Reddit - r/literature · 2025-10-13
Blown away 4.50

The reviewer is blown away by DeLillo's prose and finds the book to be a masterful piece of literature. They are eager to explore more of DeLillo's work.

The reviewer expresses their awe at the masterful prose of Don DeLillo in 'Libra', stating that it is their first encounter with his work and they are now eager to read more. They highlight the unique style and the way DeLillo creates a suspenseful and engaging narrative. The reviewer finds the book to be a profound exploration of its subject matter, making it a standout piece of literature. They appreciate the depth and complexity of the characters and the intricate plot.

Quick quotes

    I am absolutely blown away.

    This is my first DeLillo, and I have to read more of his work now.

    His prose is truly masterful, as he creates a world that is both familiar and unsettling.

biisbooks - WordPress.com · 2023-01-07
Gorgeous 4.00

The book is gorgeously written with a unique prose style that creates a palpable rhythm. It is not DeLillo's best work but still stands out for its literary merit.

The reviewer highlights the exquisite writing style of Don DeLillo in 'Libra', noting the precise and often short sentences that create a distinct rhythm and pace. They mention that while it may not be his most stunning book, it is still a remarkable piece of literature. The reviewer appreciates the intricate details and the way DeLillo blends fact and fiction, making the book a compelling read. The dialogue is described as clipped and staccato, adding to the overall impact of the narrative.

Quick quotes

    Libra is not his most stunning book in this respect, but it is still gorgeously written.

    This is just a small example, but the book is littered with such moments.

    The dialogue is clipped, staccato, and often profound.

The New York Times · 1998-12-06
Brilliant 4.75

The book provides a gripping blend of fact and fiction with meticulously portrayed characters. It is a grave, haunting, and brilliant exploration of its themes.

The reviewer praises 'Libra' for its gripping blend of fact and fiction, highlighting the meticulously portrayed characters, both real and created. They describe the book as a grave, haunting, and brilliant exploration of its themes. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the narrative and the way DeLillo delves into the psychological and political complexities of the subject matter. They find the book to be a profound and thought-provoking read that leaves a lasting impact.

Quick quotes

    A gripping, masterful blend of fact and fiction, alive with meticulously portrayed characters both real and created.

    Libra is a grave, haunting, and brilliant exploration of its themes.

    The book delves deeply into the psychological and political complexities of its subject matter.

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