BOOK BRIEF

The Crystal World

J.G. Ballard
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The Crystal World

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1988

Book Brief

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J.G. Ballard

The Crystal World

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1988
Book Details
Pages

210

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

African Jungle • 1960s

Publication Year

1988

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In The Crystal World, individuals in the jungle encounter a mysterious phenomenon transforming everything into crystalline structures. As a doctor enters this shimmering landscape to find his estranged love, he confronts challenges that blur reality, time, and human connections in a world succumbing to a beautiful but ominous transformation.

Mysterious

Dark

Fantastical

Melancholic

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

3.8

4,826 ratings

56%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Crystal World by J.G. Ballard is lauded for its evocative prose and surreal atmosphere, crafting a haunting tale of a jungle turning to crystal. Critics praise its vivid imagery and existential themes but note the complexity can be disorienting. Some feel the plot is secondary to the novel's rich symbolism, making it a challenging yet rewarding read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Crystal World?

Readers who enjoy The Crystal World by J.G. Ballard likely appreciate surreal and speculative narratives. Fans of apocalyptic themes as seen in The Road by Cormac McCarthy or the existential depth of Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad may find it compelling. They enjoy richly imaginative settings and explorations of existential transformation.

3.8

4,826 ratings

56%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

210

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

African Jungle • 1960s

Publication Year

1988

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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