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Cover of Journey by Moonlight
Literary Fiction· Hungary

Journey by Moonlight

by Antal Szerb
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1937Hungarian
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About This Book

Few works of literary fiction have earned the sustained critical attention that Journey by Moonlight (1937) by Antal Szerb continues to receive. Journey by Moonlight is a classic novel that follows Mihály, a man on his honeymoon in Italy, as he grapples with existential questions and a longing for a more meaningful life. Szerb's work is celebrated for its lyrical prose, exploration of the human psyche, and its blend of humor and melancholy. Themes of existentialism, identity, romance run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorAntal Szerb
Published1937
Country of Origin🇭🇺 Hungary
LanguageHungarian
Category📖 Literary Fiction
ISBN9781933372942
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

📖 Literary Fiction

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

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Country of Origin

🇭🇺 Hungary

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

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Editorial Assessment

First published in 1937, Antal Szerb's Journey by Moonlight is a work of literary fiction that has drawn sustained interest from critics and prize committees alike. Its engagement with existentialism, identity, romance, search for meaning gives the book a depth that extends well beyond its genre. With an editorial score of 30/100 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. The appeal of Journey by Moonlight lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of existentialism, identity, romance, search for meaning is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page. Within Hungary's literary landscape, Antal Szerb occupies a significant position. Journey by Moonlight 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

Guardian 100 Best Novels
list · global
20090
✍️
About the Author
Antal Szerb
Hungary
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Antal Szerb is a Hungary author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Journey by Moonlight about?

Journey by Moonlight is a classic novel that follows Mihály, a man on his honeymoon in Italy, as he grapples with existential questions and a longing for a more meaningful life. Szerb's work is celebrated for its lyrical prose, exploration of the human psyche, and its blend of humor and melancholy.

Who wrote Journey by Moonlight?

Journey by Moonlight was written by Antal Szerb, from Hungary. First published in 1937.

What awards has Journey by Moonlight won?

Journey by Moonlight has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is Journey by Moonlight worth reading?

Journey by Moonlight 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 existentialism, identity, romance.

Where can I buy Journey by Moonlight?

You can buy Journey by Moonlight on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is Journey by Moonlight?

Journey by Moonlight is classified as Literary Fiction. Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

What country is Journey by Moonlight from?

Journey by Moonlight originates from Hungary's literary tradition. Explore more books from Hungary on our country page.

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