The Naked and the Dead

by Norman Mailer
The Naked and the Dead cover
Good Books rating 3.5
History, Political, Military, Adventure
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  • ID: 9403
  • Added: 2025-12-24
  • Updated: 2026-01-17
  • ISBN: 9780241340509
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 1964-01-01
  • Formats: 7
  • Reviews: 4

Norman Mailer's debut novel, The Naked and the Dead, is a stark and unflinching portrayal of war. Set during World War II, the story follows a platoon of American soldiers as they battle both the enemy and their own inner demons. The novel is renowned for its raw and vivid depictions of combat, as well as its deep exploration of the psychological toll of war. /n/n The Naked and the Dead is not just a war story; it is a profound examination of human nature. Mailer's powerful prose and intricate character development make this a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today. The novel's themes of survival, camaraderie, and the loss of innocence are as relevant now as they were when first published.

Reviews
Britannica · Britannica Editors · 2026-01-17
brilliant 4.50

This novel is hailed as one of the finest American novels to come out of World War II, praised for its realistic and unflinching portrayal of the war. It is a significant work in American literature.

The Naked and the Dead is widely regarded as a significant contribution to American literature, particularly in the realm of war novels. Its realistic and unflinching portrayal of the war experience has earned it critical acclaim and a place among the finest novels of its time. The book's exploration of the psychological and emotional impact of war on soldiers is both profound and impactful. While the novel's length and complexity may be challenging for some readers, its depth and authenticity make it a must-read for those interested in the human experience during wartime. The Naked and the Dead continues to be celebrated for its literary merit and its unvarnished look at the realities of war.

Quick quotes

    One of the finest American novels to come out of World War II.

    Praised for its realistic and unflinching portrayal of the war.

    A significant work in American literature.

Goodreads · Various · 2026-01-17
powerful 3.00

The Naked and the Dead is considered one of the best American books about war, capturing the raw and chaotic experiences of soldiers. It is praised for its unflinching portrayal of the human condition during wartime.

This novel is often hailed as a masterpiece of war literature. Readers appreciate its gritty realism and the way it delves into the psychological and emotional struggles of soldiers. The characters are deeply flawed and complex, making their journeys both harrowing and compelling. The book's unvarnished look at war and its impact on individuals has left a lasting impression on many. While some find the prose dense and the pacing slow, the overall impact of the story is undeniable. It's a book that stays with you long after you've turned the last page.

Quick quotes

    The best American book about war.

    The General had once said to him, 'I like chaos, it's like the ...'

    A raw and unflinching portrayal of the human condition during wartime.

Cannonball Read · Kit Teguh · 2021-12-28
intriguing 3.50

The novel is not plot-driven, which reflects the life of a soldier. The focus is on the characters and their experiences, making it a unique and engaging read.

Cannonball Read's review highlights that the novel is not plot-driven, which reflects the life of a soldier. The focus is on the characters and their experiences, making it a unique and engaging read. The reviewer appreciates the anti-plot nature of the book, which allows for a deeper exploration of the characters and their inner worlds. The book is not an easy read, but it is a rewarding one that offers a unique perspective on the war experience. The reviewer notes that the book is not always enjoyable, but it is a powerful and thought-provoking read that stays with you long after you've finished it.

Quick quotes

    The novel is not plot driven, which makes sense in terms of the life of a soldier, and is even kind of anti-plot, as the focus of the novel is a ...

    It is often not an enjoyable book to read, and you might be feeling swelling with an inexplicable void.

    There is not much violence to speak of, but the psychological impact is profound.

The New York Times · 1997-05-04
good 3.00

The vignettes in the book are skillfully written, but the main narrative can be sluggish at times. The book is a mix of brilliant writing and slower-paced sections that can be challenging to get through.

The New York Times review notes that the book is a mix of brilliant writing and slower-paced sections. The vignettes are particularly well-crafted, showcasing Mailer's skill as a writer. However, the main narrative can be sluggish, making it a bit of a challenge to get through at times. Despite this, the book is still a compelling read that offers a unique perspective on the war experience. The reviewer acknowledges that while the book has its slower moments, the overall quality of the writing makes it worth the effort.

Quick quotes

    If there is any doubt that Mr. Mailer is a perceptive, skillful writer, these vignettes will dispel it.

    By contrast, the main narrative is often sluggish; too much of the book is taken up with the internal monologues of the characters.

    The novel is not plot driven, which makes sense in terms of the life of a soldier, and is even kind of anti-plot, as the focus of the novel is a ...

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