A Town Like Alice
by Nevil Shute
8.32 / 10 64K ratings
- Language
- English
- Published
- 2020
- Publisher
- Independently published
- Pages
- 286
- ISBN
- 9798674085270
Subjects
- Reference
- Literature & Fiction
- Genre Fiction
- Suspense
- Literary
- Action & Adventure
- Fiction
- Historical
- History
- Military
- World War II
- Children's Books
- Education & Reference
- Non-Classifiable
- Romance
- Contemporary
- Fiction in English
- Psychological
- Australia
- Foreign Language Study & Reference
- Classics
- Fiction, historical, general
- Fiction, general
- Literature
- Modern fiction
- English as a Second Language
- Media Tie-In
- Readers
- Foreign Language Study
- Historical Fiction
- Juvenile Nonfiction
- Nonfiction - General
- War
- Soldiers
- Beginner
- Thrillers
- War & Military
Original edition
LegacyOriginally published in 1970 English Ballantine Books
Other editions (73)
What other readers say
Liked
Many reviewers laud "A Town Like Alice" as a compelling and brilliantly told story, often highlighting Nevil Shute's exceptional craftsmanship as a storyteller. The novel is widely praised for its incredibly strong, complex, and inspiring protagonist, Jean Paget, whose resilience, courage, and entrepreneurial spirit shine through adversity. Readers frequently describe the narrative as engaging, gripping, and heartwarming, drawing them into a unique tale of survival and determination. The use of an elderly solicitor as the narrator is also frequently cited as a charming and effective way to unfold Jean's extraordinary journey, allowing for a broad scope and a touch of nostalgic reflection. The book is appreciated for its vivid descriptions of diverse settings, from the Malayan jungle to the Australian outback, and for its underlying themes of human spirit, love, and community building.
Disliked
Despite its strengths, some readers found aspects of "A Town Like Alice" to be less successful. A common criticism points to pacing issues, particularly in the latter two-thirds of the book, with some describing it as slow, lagging, or becoming a "travelogue" that loses momentum. The novel's age, originally published in 1950, is also frequently noted due to its inclusion of outdated attitudes, particularly concerning race and gender roles. Reviewers mention uncomfortable instances of racial slurs, casual racism towards Aboriginal people, and chauvinistic views regarding women's capabilities, which some found detracting from their enjoyment. Additionally, a few comments suggest that the romance, while present, felt underdeveloped, contradictory, or problematic in certain depictions. Some also felt a lack of deep emotional connection to the characters, despite admiring their actions.
In short
Ultimately, "A Town Like Alice" is widely considered a classic and a remarkable story that leaves a lasting impression on many readers. While its dated perspectives on social issues require a discerning modern eye, the book's powerful narrative of courage, endurance, and transformation largely transcends these flaws for its admirers. It is highly recommended for those who appreciate historical fiction, especially stories centered on war survival and post-war rebuilding. Readers who enjoy strong, resourceful female protagonists, narratives about community development, and vivid depictions of international settings like Malaya and the Australian outback will likely find this a deeply satisfying and inspiring read. It appeals to those seeking a well-crafted, old-fashioned yarn that explores the indomitable human spirit.
No reviews yet. Be the first.
Readers also liked
1984
George Orwell, Eric Arthur Blair, Coles Notes, Nicola Gardini, Stéphane Labbé, Amélie Audiberti (Traduction), Géraldine Guillier, Lion Nuser Prints, Geroge Orwell
A Christmas Carol
Charles Dickens, Jules Verne, Anne De Graaf, Christian Birmingham, John Leech, Tony Mitton, Stephen Krensky, Ann Murphy, Aeterna Press, Ballard Classics, Hans Christian Andersen, John Ruskin, David Thompson, Jim Dale, Arthur Rackham, Michael J. Enright, Lesley Sims, Simon Prebble, John le Carré, Alan Marks, Barbara Chatwin, Margaret McAllister, Pauline Francis, Bernadine Stetzel, Common Classics XL Print, Vincent Verret, HR and W School Division Staff, Frank Müller, Patrick Stewart, Peter Foreman, Jose Perez Montero, Hilary Burningham, Debra Doyle, Lee Krutop, Anne de Graf, Marta Fihel, Grzegorz Komerski, Gary Owen, David B. Davies, Kathy Wilburn, Dariusz Jemielniak, Shona McKellar, Arcadian Press, Nóstica Editorial, Leonard Rossiter, Frederick Simpson Coburn, Andrew Devonshire, Gaby (RTL) Goldsack, Andrew McCallum, Bookish, Joe Boddy, J. Valera, Nathan Walkowicz, NDWT Archives (University of Guelph), Robert Lohan, Supernova Star Books, Ed Scates, Bruno Olcese, Diamond Classics, RD. HAYES, Barbara Grandmaison, Harry G. Miller, Zenith Blue Ridge Books, Greg Standford, Lorraine Kimsa Theatre for Young People Theatre Archives (University of Guelph), C. Z. (Charles Zachary) Barnett, Laura Ruttan, John Wallace (Junior.), Russ Germain, Emma Vvict
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Mark Twain, Collective, Michelle M. White, Suzanne McCabe, classics for US, Fearless Editions, Dale Classics
Free to read
The Ego and Its Own The Case of The Individual Against Authority
John Carroll
Gone with the Wind
Margaret Mitchell, Pat Conroy, Brian Phillips, Sidney Howard, Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh
The Perils of Peace The Public Health Crisis in Occupied Germany
Jessica Reinisch
Sword of the Gods
Anna Erishkigal