BOOK BRIEF

De avonden

Gerard Reve, Gerard Kornelis van het Reve
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De avonden

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1997

Book Brief

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Gerard Reve, Gerard Kornelis van het Reve

De avonden

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1997
Book Details
Pages

191

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Amsterdam, Netherlands • 1940s

Publication Year

1997

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

De avonden by Gerard Reve follows Frits van Egters, a young man during post-war Amsterdam over ten days. Through his observations and interactions, the novel depicts his mundane life and existential concerns, showcasing the struggles of young adulthood and the search for meaning in a troubled world.

Melancholic

Contemplative

Dark

Unnerving

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

3.5

11,745 ratings

53%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

19%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

De avonden by Gerard Reve is lauded for its bleak yet insightful portrayal of post-war Dutch society through the eyes of a disenchanted youth. Critics praise its dark humor and introspective nature. However, some find its slow pace and repetitive dialogues challenging. The novel's powerful exploration of existential themes is both its strength and weakness, depending on the reader's perspective.

Who should read this

Who Should Read De avonden?

A reader who enjoys introspective narratives and post-war existential themes, similar to Albert Camus' The Stranger, would appreciate Gerard Reve's De avonden. The book's focus on alienation and routine, set in a bleak post-war Netherlands, appeals to those interested in character-driven stories with psychological depth.

3.5

11,745 ratings

53%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

19%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

191

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Amsterdam, Netherlands • 1940s

Publication Year

1997

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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