Zuckerman Bound by Philip Roth

The book is a compilation of works that follow the life of a fictional novelist, Nathan Zuckerman, as he navigates the complexities of success, identity, and creativity in the literary world. Set against the backdrop of the 1960s and 1970s in the United States, the protagonist grapples with the consequences of his own controversial writing, which draws heavily from his personal experiences and Jewish heritage. As he deals with the fallout from family, critics, and admirers, the narrative delves into themes of artistic integrity, personal freedom, and the burdens of fame, offering a satirical and introspective look at the inner workings of the literary establishment and the challenges of being a public intellectual.

The 5081st greatest book of all time


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Total Points: 99

Since this book was first published in 1985, there is a penalty of 17.6%. The age adjusted score is 81.58.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.