The novel tells the story of Robinson, a European man who becomes the sole survivor of a shipwreck on a remote tropical island. He attempts to create a civilization in his image, but his efforts are largely unsuccessful. When a native named Friday eventually arrives on the island, Robinson attempts to teach him his ways. However, Friday, who is free-spirited and in tune with nature, fundamentally challenges Robinson's worldview. The novel explores themes of colonialism, the nature of civilization, and the tension between individual freedom and societal order.

The 2122nd greatest book of all time