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Literary Fiction· Angola

A General Theory of Oblivion

by José Eduardo Agualusa
Aggregate Editorial Score54/100
★Booker Prize
Published 2012Portuguese
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About This Book

Published in 2012, A General Theory of Oblivion established José Eduardo Agualusa as one of the defining voices in literary fiction. This novel tells the story of a woman who bricks herself into her apartment in Luanda on the eve of Angolan independence and remains there for 30 years. Agualusa crafts a narrative that explores themes of isolation, fear, and the passage of time, while also reflecting on Angola's turbulent history. Themes of isolation, fear, time run through the work. The book has received recognition from International Dublin Literary Award 2017.

Book Details

AuthorJosé Eduardo Agualusa
Published2012
Country of Origin🇦🇴 Angola
LanguagePortuguese
Category📖 Literary Fiction
ISBN9780914671312
Editorial Score54/100
About the Category

📖 Literary Fiction

Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

Explore all Literary Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇦🇴 Angola

This book is part of Angola's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from Angola →

Editorial Assessment

A General Theory of Oblivion by José Eduardo Agualusa sits within the tradition of literary fiction that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 2012 in Angola, it engages with isolation, fear, time, history in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. Among its recognitions: International Dublin Literary Award 2017. With an editorial score of 54/100 drawn from 1 independent sources, the book occupies a well-documented position in the critical literature. Its recognition spans international prizes, "best of" lists, and academic surveys. Readers coming to A General Theory of Oblivion for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of isolation, fear, time, history is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. Within Angola's literary landscape, José Eduardo Agualusa occupies a significant position. A General Theory of Oblivion is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
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

Booker Prize
shortlist · global
20160
✍️
About the Author
José Eduardo Agualusa
Angola
View Author →

José Eduardo Agualusa is a Angola author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is A General Theory of Oblivion about?

This novel tells the story of a woman who bricks herself into her apartment in Luanda on the eve of Angolan independence and remains there for 30 years. Agualusa crafts a narrative that explores themes of isolation, fear, and the passage of time, while also reflecting on Angola's turbulent history.

Who wrote A General Theory of Oblivion?

A General Theory of Oblivion was written by José Eduardo Agualusa, from Angola. First published in 2012.

What awards has A General Theory of Oblivion won?

A General Theory of Oblivion has received the following recognition: International Dublin Literary Award 2017.

Is A General Theory of Oblivion worth reading?

A General Theory of Oblivion is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 54/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in isolation, fear, time.

Where can I buy A General Theory of Oblivion?

You can buy A General Theory of Oblivion on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is A General Theory of Oblivion?

A General Theory of Oblivion is classified as Literary Fiction. Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

What country is A General Theory of Oblivion from?

A General Theory of Oblivion originates from Angola's literary tradition. Explore more books from Angola on our country page.

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