BOOK BRIEF

The Magic Christian

Terry Southern
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The Magic Christian

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1996

Book Brief

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Terry Southern

The Magic Christian

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1996
Book Details
Pages

148

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

United States • 1950s

Publication Year

1996

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Magic Christian by Terry Southern follows a wealthy man who uses his fortune to challenge societal norms and expose human greed and hypocrisy. Through outrageous schemes and pranks, the story explores themes of wealth, power, and absurdity, illustrating the lengths individuals will go to in pursuit of money and status.

Humorous

Mysterious

Fantastical

Dark

Playful

Reviews & Readership

3.4

1,589 ratings

49%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

20%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Magic Christian by Terry Southern is a satirical romp that skewers capitalism and human greed with dark humor and absurd scenarios. Reviewers praise its sharp wit and clever commentary on societal flaws, though some find the narrative disjointed and overly cynical. Despite mixed reactions to its tone, the novel remains a provocative examination of moral corruption.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Magic Christian?

A reader who enjoys dark humor, satire, and absurdity in literature would appreciate The Magic Christian by Terry Southern. Fans of Candy by Southern or Catch-22 by Joseph Heller are likely to be drawn to its critique of greed and human nature through its outrageous and provocative narrative.

3.4

1,589 ratings

49%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

20%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

148

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

United States • 1950s

Publication Year

1996

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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