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Cover of A Clockwork Orange
Science Fiction· United Kingdom

A Clockwork Orange

by Anthony Burgess
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
#15,621of 99,626 books
Published 1962English
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About This Book

Anthony Burgess's A Clockwork Orange (1962) stands as one of the most significant works of science fiction of its era. A Clockwork Orange is a dystopian novel set in a future society characterized by extreme youth violence. The story follows Alex, a delinquent who undergoes an experimental form of aversion therapy to reform his criminal behavior. Burgess's novel is noted for its inventive use of language, exploration of free will, and its critique of state control and the nature of evil. Themes of violence, free will, control run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorAnthony Burgess
Published1962
Country of Origin🇬🇧 United Kingdom
LanguageEnglish
Category🚀 Science Fiction
ISBN978-0393312836
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

🚀 Science Fiction

Speculative fiction exploring technology, space, the future, and society.

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Country of Origin

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

This book is part of United Kingdom's rich literary tradition.

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Editorial Assessment

First published in 1962, Anthony Burgess's A Clockwork Orange is a work of science fiction that has drawn sustained interest from critics and prize committees alike. Its engagement with violence, free will, control, youth gives the book a depth that extends well beyond its genre. The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Its aggregate editorial score of 30/100 reflects recognition from 1 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals. What distinguishes A Clockwork Orange is how it handles its central concerns — violence, free will, control, youth — without reducing them to neat conclusions. The book invites close reading and holds up well to it. A Clockwork Orange reflects Anthony Burgess's place in a wider literary tradition. The book's concerns resonate with United Kingdom's broader cultural preoccupations, even as they reach beyond any single national context.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

TIME 100 Best Novels
list · global
20050
✍️
About the Author
Anthony Burgess
United Kingdom
View Author →

Anthony Burgess is a United Kingdom author whose work in science fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is A Clockwork Orange about?

A Clockwork Orange is a dystopian novel set in a future society characterized by extreme youth violence. The story follows Alex, a delinquent who undergoes an experimental form of aversion therapy to reform his criminal behavior. Burgess's novel is noted for its inventive use of language, exploration of free will, and its critique of state control and the nature of evil.

Who wrote A Clockwork Orange?

A Clockwork Orange was written by Anthony Burgess, from United Kingdom. First published in 1962.

What awards has A Clockwork Orange won?

A Clockwork Orange has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is A Clockwork Orange worth reading?

A Clockwork Orange is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in violence, free will, control.

Where can I buy A Clockwork Orange?

You can buy A Clockwork Orange on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is A Clockwork Orange?

A Clockwork Orange is classified as Science Fiction. Speculative fiction exploring technology, space, the future, and society.

What country is A Clockwork Orange from?

A Clockwork Orange originates from United Kingdom's literary tradition. Explore more books from United Kingdom on our country page.

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