Fates Worse Than Death

Kurt Vonnegut Jr.

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1991

Access Library

Book Brief

Kurt Vonnegut Jr.

Fates Worse Than Death

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1991

Book Details

Pages

240

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

1990s

Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Super Short Summary

Published in 1991, Fates Worse Than Death is a collection of autobiographical essays by Kurt Vonnegut. In the collection, Vonnegut explores his childhood, college life, and time in the army, as well as his thoughts on the hypocrisy of the Reagan administration. Known for his black humor, satire, and opinions on various aspects of American society, the essays reflect on Vonnegut's personal experiences and the larger world with sarcasm and self-deprecating humor. The book discusses sensitive topics including addiction, death, suicide, and criticism of religious and political institutions.

Contemplative

Humorous

Informative

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Fates Worse Than Death by Kurt Vonnegut Jr. offers a blend of autobiographical essays and social commentary that displays Vonnegut's wit and humanism. Reviewers praise its incisive humor and thought-provoking insights, though some find its structure disjointed and the tone occasionally rambling. Fans of Vonnegut will appreciate his distinctive voice and reflective musings.

Who Should Read Fates Worse Than Death?

Readers who enjoy satirical, thought-provoking essays with dark humor and social critique will appreciate Fates Worse Than Death by Kurt Vonnegut Jr. Fans of Hunter S. Thompson’s Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and George Orwell’s 1984 will likely find this collection engaging due to its incisive commentary and reflective, personal style.

Fun Facts

Fates Worse Than Death is a semi-autobiographical work by Kurt Vonnegut, combining essays, speeches, and autobiographical sketches, reflecting his thoughts on life and existence.

The book is known for its exploration of Vonnegut's family history, his experiences during World War II, and his critiques of modern society, all infused with his characteristic wit and dark humor.

Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!

Vonnegut dedicated Fates Worse Than Death to his three adopted children, Nancy, Steven, and Jim, showcasing the personal nature of his reflections and narratives within the book.