The Sympathizer

by Viet Thanh Nguyen
The Sympathizer cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Literary Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 683
  • Added: 2025-09-19
  • Updated: 2025-09-20
  • ISBN: 9781472151384
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2015-08-20
  • Formats: 27
  • Reviews: 4
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99

The Sympathizer is a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that delves into the life of a Vietnamese captain who is secretly a Communist spy embedded within the South Vietnamese army. As Saigon falls in 1975, the captain accompanies his general and other compatriots to Los Angeles, where he continues his double life, reporting back to the Viet Cong. The novel is a compelling blend of spy thriller, political commentary, and love story, offering a unique perspective on the Vietnam War and its aftermath. /n/n Written in a refreshingly high style and charged with intelligent rage, The Sympathizer is a literary masterpiece that explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the legacy of war. The protagonist's internal conflict and the novel's darkly comic moments make it a standout in contemporary fiction, resonating with present-day issues and conflicts.

Reviews
Lit Lens · 2018-07-04
intriguing 4.00

The writing is praised for being clever and information-packed without being overwhelming. The reviewer finds the story engaging but notes the complexity of keeping track of alliances and characters.

The reviewer appreciates the clever and information-rich writing style, which manages to be engaging without feeling bogged down. They find the story compelling but acknowledge the challenge of keeping track of the various alliances and characters. Despite this, the reviewer finds the narrative to be well-crafted and thought-provoking. The complexity of the story adds depth, making it a rewarding read for those who enjoy intricate plots and well-developed characters.

Quick quotes

    Nguyen's writing is clever and information-packed without bogging you down.

    Keeping track of alliances and important characters was tricky at times.

    The complexity of the story adds depth, making it a rewarding read.

Novel Readings · Rohan Maitzen · 2017-07-30
intriguing 4.00

The narrator is complex and flawed, making for a compelling read. The novel is both critical and critically acclaimed.

Rohan Maitzen from Novel Readings finds the narrator of 'The Sympathizer' to be a complex and flawed character, which adds depth to the story. They appreciate the novel's critical approach and its ability to evoke strong emotions. Maitzen highlights the narrator's terrible behavior and the terrible behavior he is subjected to, making the narrative both engaging and thought-provoking. The novel's exploration of guilt and redemption is particularly noted.

Quick quotes

    The narrator certainly is complex, and he is guilty of terrible behavior, and he is also subjected to terrible behavior.

    He is highly critical ...

    The book is a mix of psychological reflection and action.

The Guardian · 2016-03-12
excellent 4.50

The novel is praised for its literary excellence and its unsettling contemporary resonance. The ending, set on a refugee boat, is particularly impactful.

The reviewer highlights 'The Sympathizer' as a standout literary novel that expertly blends historical context with a gripping narrative. They appreciate its bold storytelling and the unsettling relevance of its conclusion, which echoes current global refugee crises. The novel's exploration of identity and conflict is noted as particularly compelling. The reviewer finds the protagonist's journey both captivating and thought-provoking, making it a memorable read.

Quick quotes

    The Sympathizer is an excellent literary novel.

    It ends, with unsettling present-day resonance, in a refugee boat.

    A gripping spy novel, an astute exploration of extreme politics, and a moving love story.

The New York Times · 2015-04-02
brilliant 4.20

The novel is described as a thrilling and satirical exploration of post-war Vietnam. The humor is dark and the narrative is both engaging and insightful.

The reviewer from The New York Times describes 'The Sympathizer' as a thrilling and satirical exploration of post-war Vietnam. They particularly enjoy the dark humor and the way the novel blends thriller elements with social satire. The narrative is praised for its engagement and insight, making it a captivating read. The reviewer appreciates the complexity of the protagonist and the nuanced portrayal of political and personal conflicts.

Quick quotes

    Here the novel becomes both thriller and social satire.

    If you like your humor written in charcoal, this is the funniest part of the book.

    A gripping spy novel, an astute exploration of extreme politics, and a moving love story.

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