100% NZ-owned | All books ship from NZ 📚

Big Sur

3.84 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

Check link for latest rating.
( 36,587 ratings, 1,754 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Big Sur by Jack Kerouac is a reflective novel that delves into the mind of an accomplished writer seeking solace from his celebrity chaos. The story captures his retreat to a secluded cabin in Big Sur as he grapples with existential despair and the relentless turmoil stemming from fame and excess. Through vivid prose, the book explores themes of solitude, nature, and the quest for inner peace.
Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$2600
AVAILABLE WITH SUPPLIER Ships from our Auckland warehouse within 2-3 weeks

Found a better price? Request a price match

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy exploring themes of personal struggle, self-discovery, and the search for peace amidst chaos. Kerouac's vivid storytelling and unique voice capture the beauty and turmoil of life, offering a contemplative and poetic journey that resonates with those drawn to introspective and existential narratives.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

Big Sur

In 1960 Jack Kerouac was near breaking point. Driven mad by constant press attention in the wake of the publication of On the Road, he needed to get away to solitude again or die, so he withdrew to a cabin in Big Sur on the Californian coast.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Big Sur is Jack Kerouac's stunningly vivid and gritty second novel, newly added to the Penguin Modern Classics series.

In 1960, Jack Kerouac was near breaking point. Driven mad by constant press attention in the wake of the publication of On the Road, he needed to 'get away to solitude again or die'. Seeking refuge, he withdrew to a cabin in Big Sur on the Californian coast.

The resulting novel, in which his autobiographical hero Jack Duluoz wrestles with doubt, alcohol dependency, and his urge towards self-destruction, is one of Kerouac's most personal and searingly honest works.

Ending with the poem 'Sea-Sounds of the Pacific Ocean at Big Sur', Big Sur depicts a man coming down from his hedonistic youth, trying to come to terms with fame, the world, and himself.

Series: Penguin Modern Classics

View all

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Big Sur is praised for its raw, intense narrative, capturing Kerouac's struggles with fame and personal demons. The book's vivid and stunning depiction of the rugged Californian landscape enhances its haunting introspection. Many admire its sensual and uninhibited style, highlighting it as one of Kerouac's more unfiltered works.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780141198255

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 03 May 2012

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 12.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 197.0mm

Weight: 148g

Pages: 192

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

About the Author

Jack Kerouac (1922-69) was an American novelist, poet, artist and part of the Beat Generation. Most of his life was spent in the vast landscapes of America or living with his mother. Kerouac's best known works are On the Road and The Dharma Bums.

Also by Jack Kerouac

View all

More from General Fiction

View all

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent specialist on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our cozy 200m2 warehouse in Auckland holds over 15,000 books in-stock so you're not waiting for books to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Pick Ups

Auckland Pick Ups

We're an online-only store but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.

Reviews from our customers