Underworld

by Don DeLillo
Underworld cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Literary Fiction
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Paperback • £12.99
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  • ID: 2369
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • ISBN: 9781416548645
  • Publisher: Scribner
  • Published: 2007-06-05
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Underworld by Don DeLillo is a sprawling, multi-layered novel that weaves together the lives of its characters against the backdrop of the Cold War. The story begins with a pivotal baseball game in 1951, symbolizing a moment of national unity that quickly gives way to the looming threat of nuclear war. The novel explores themes of identity, memory, and the impact of historical events on individual lives, featuring a cast of iconic figures and everyday people. /n/n DeLillo's prose is both intimate and expansive, offering a vivid portrait of America during a time of profound change. From the streets of New York to the vast landscapes of the American West, the novel delves into the complexities of human relationships and the collective consciousness of a nation. Underworld is a testament to DeLillo's mastery of the novel form, blending historical events with deeply personal narratives to create a work of enduring significance.

Reviews
John Pistelli · John Pistelli · 2022-07-29
profound 4.00

The novel is praised for being the least boring 800-page book due to its rich and detailed prose, despite lacking a traditional narrative structure. It is seen as a profound exploration of American culture and history.

The reviewer commends the novel for being an engaging read despite its length and lack of a traditional plot. They appreciate the detailed and rich prose that makes every page compelling. The reviewer also highlights the novel's exploration of American culture and history, noting its profound impact on the reader. They find the book to be a unique and thought-provoking experience, even if it does not follow conventional storytelling methods.

Quick quotes

    It's the least boring 800-page novel I have ever read.

    Not because it tells a thrilling story (it tells no story at all) but because every page is compelling.

    Every page is a profound exploration of American culture and history.

Dead End Follies · 2019-11-22
engaging 3.50

The novel feels like a collection of short stories rather than a cohesive novel, with some character arcs that may not resonate with all readers. Despite this, it is engaging and thought-provoking.

The reviewer enjoys the novel but notes that it reads more like a series of interconnected short stories than a traditional novel. They find some character arcs less compelling, but overall, the book is engaging and thought-provoking. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the themes explored, such as trash, violence, and paranoia, which add layers of complexity to the narrative. They also highlight the postmodern elements that make the book a unique and intriguing read.

Quick quotes

    I liked Underworld. It feels more like a tapestry of short stories than a novel.

    Some character arcs you'll definitely discard.

    It is engaging and thought-provoking.

The Guardian · The Flamethrowers author · 2015-08-21
masterful 4.50

The novel is hailed as a masterpiece that captures the essence of the US in the second half of the 20th century. It is praised for its profound exploration of American history and culture.

The reviewer admires this novel as a masterpiece, highlighting its ability to capture the spirit of the US in the latter half of the 20th century. They appreciate the depth and breadth of the narrative, which intertwines historical events with personal stories, creating a rich tapestry of American life. The reviewer also notes the author's skill in weaving together themes of consumerism, Cold War paranoia, and the American dream, making it a compelling read.

Quick quotes

    Don DeLillo's 1997 novel captures the US in the second half of the 20th century.

    The author of The Flamethrowers hails it as a masterpiece.

    It guides the reader in an epic journey through America's history and popular culture.

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