Catch-22

About Catch-22

Joseph Heller's iconic novel, Catch-22, plunges readers into the chaotic and darkly humorous world of World War II. Set during the final months of the conflict, the story follows Captain John Yossarian, a U.S. Army Air Forces bombardier stationed on the fictional island of Pianosa. Yossarian is convinced that everyone, especially his own commanding officers, is trying to kill him. His primary torment isn't the enemy forces, but rather the absurd bureaucracy of his own military, which continually raises the number of combat missions required for service completion.

At the heart of Heller's satirical masterpiece is the infamous "Catch-22" rule: a paradoxical regulation that states a pilot is insane if he continues to fly dangerous missions and therefore can be excused from duty. However, if he applies to be excused, it proves he is sane, and thus must continue flying. This inescapable logic traps Yossarian and his fellow airmen in a cycle of desperation, rebellion, and dark comedy as they navigate the madness of war, the pursuit of self-preservation, and the ultimate futility of their situation. This classic of modern literature brilliantly explores themes of war, sanity, and the individual's struggle against an overwhelming system.

Key Details

• Author: Joseph Heller
• Publisher: Vintage Classics
• Format: Paperback, 544 pages
• Language: English
• Published: 2011
• ISBN: 9780099529125

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