The Book of Laughter and Forgetting by Milan Kundera
This novel is a blend of fiction, autobiography, and philosophical musings that explores the nature of forgetting, the power of laughter, and the struggle for personal and political freedom. Set against the backdrop of the political turmoil in Czechoslovakia in the 20th century, it follows the interconnected stories of various characters, including a man who is expelled from the Communist Party, a young woman in love with a man whose father was a political prisoner, and a couple who flee to America. Throughout, the book delves into the ways in which personal and collective memories shape identity and history.
The 696th greatest book of all time
If you're interested in seeing the ranking details on this book go here
This book is on the following lists:
- 93rd on The 100 Greatest Novels of All Time: The List (The Observer)
- Donald Barthelme’s Reading List (Believer Mag)
- 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die (The Book)
- The Hundred Most Influential Books Since The War (WW2) (Central and East European Publishing Project)