2666

by Roberto Bolaño; translated by Natasha Wimmer
2666 cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Literary Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 740
  • Added: 2025-09-19
  • Updated: 2025-09-19
  • ISBN: 9781466804821
  • Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux
  • Published: 2013-07-09
  • Reviews: 4

Composed in the final years of Roberto Bolaño's life, 2666 is celebrated as his magnum opus, surpassing his previous works in its scope and complexity. The novel introduces a rich tapestry of characters, from academics and convicts to a reclusive German novelist and a troubled father-daughter duo, all converging in the grimy, violent landscape of SantaTeresa, a stand-in for Juárez. The city's dark underbelly, marked by the unsolved murders of hundreds of young women, serves as a haunting backdrop to their interconnected stories. Bolaño's intricate prose and unflinching exploration of violence, art, and human resilience make 2666 a profound and unsettling reading experience. The novel's blend of literary depth and social commentary has cemented its place as a modern classic, showcasing Bolaño's unique ability to blend genres and themes seamlessly.

Reviews
Rochester University · 2021-09-30
engaging 4.00

The book is wild, fun, and disturbing, but its length is deceptive as it reads quickly due to Bolaño's engaging style.

This review describes '2666' as a wild, fun, and disturbing read, noting that despite its length, it is surprisingly quick to get through. The reviewer attributes this to Bolaño's engaging style and the translator's ability to maintain fluency. They highlight the book's ability to captivate readers despite its dark themes and complex narrative. The reviewer finds the book to be a unique and compelling read that stands out in contemporary literature.

Quick quotes

    It's wild, it's fun, it's disturbing.

    But this really is a book that reads fast, thanks in large part to Bolaño & Wimmer's style.

    The book's ability to captivate readers despite its dark themes and complex narrative is noteworthy.

Claire McAlpine's Blog · Claire McAlpine · 2015-09-27
complex 3.50

While highly regarded, the book may not be for everyone. It requires a committed reader willing to engage with its complex narrative.

Claire McAlpine from her blog acknowledges the high regard in which '2666' is held but cautions that it may not be suitable for all readers. She suggests that potential readers should explore a variety of reviews before diving in, as the novel's complexity and length require a significant commitment. McAlpine appreciates the novel's depth and the intricate web of narratives but acknowledges that it demands a dedicated and patient reader. She highlights the importance of understanding the book's context and themes to fully appreciate its merit.

Quick quotes

    It is a novel highly regarded by many.

    I would be reluctant to recommend it without the potential reader reading a variety of reviews.

    The novel's complexity and length require a significant commitment.

The Independent · 2009-02-01
rewarding 4.00

The book demands patience but is ultimately rewarding. It explores themes of violence and literature with a unique and compelling voice.

The Independent's reviewer acknowledges that '2666' is a challenging read due to its length and complexity. However, they believe it is well worth the effort, praising the novel's exploration of violence and literature. The reviewer highlights the unique voice of the book and its ability to captivate readers despite its daunting size. They suggest that patience and perseverance are key to fully appreciating the novel's depth and impact.

Quick quotes

    Patience and good eyesight are what you need to finish this 900-page gargantua of Latin American fiction.

    It's well worth persevering with this monumental work.

    The novel's exploration of violence and literature is both unique and compelling.

The New York Times · Jonathan Lethem · 2008-11-12
monumental 4.50

The novel is a monumental achievement, showcasing Bolaño's ability to weave complex narratives. The book's length and scope are matched by its depth and impact.

Jonathan Lethem from The New York Times praises '2666' as a consummate performance, highlighting Bolaño's mastery in crafting a 900-page novel that doesn't feel bloated. They appreciate the intricate storytelling and the way Bolaño tackles profound themes with a deft touch. The novel's length is seen as an asset rather than a detriment, as each page contributes to the overall impact. Lethem also notes the book's ability to balance multiple narratives and themes, making it a standout work in contemporary literature.

Quick quotes

    2666 is as consummate a performance as any 900-page novel dare hope to be.

    Bolaño won the race to the finish line in writing what he plainly knew would be his final book.

    The novel's length is not a burden but a testament to its depth and scope.

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