
Cat's Cradle: A Novel by Kurt Vonnegut
Cat's Cradle is Kurt Vonnegut's satirical novel about human folly and the planet's possible fate. Its listing describes dark humor, an invented theology and an apocalyptic story, making it a fit for readers drawn to thought-provoking satire rather than straightforward plot-driven fiction.
At a glance
- Vonnegut's satire pairs dark humor with an apocalyptic premise.
- The listing describes a fictional theology and a story intended to prompt reflection.
- English-language edition listed at 304 pages.
Often bought together
Pros and cons
Pros
- Combines satirical humor with ideas about human behavior and the planet's fate.
- The listed 304-page length gives buyers a useful indication of the edition's scope.
Technical specifications
9 specifications| Format | Novel |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Dell Publishing |
| Publication date | September 8, 1998 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 304 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 038533348X |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0385333481 |
| Weight listed | 2.31 pounds |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 5.23 x 0.65 x 7.96 inches |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers looking for darkly comic satire with philosophical themes.
- Readers interested in Vonnegut's work and apocalyptic fiction.
Less suited to
- Readers who prefer tightly directed plots. Customer feedback reports mixed reactions to the story's direction.
- Readers seeking consistently upbeat material. Feedback describes the book as often depressing.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
59% 59% - 4 stars
27% 27% - 3 stars
11% 11% - 2 stars
2% 2% - 1 star
1% 1%
Customer feedback praises Vonnegut's prose, dark humor and thought-provoking content, with reports that the book can be entertaining while prompting reflection. Reactions to the plot are mixed, ranging from appreciation of its underlying ideas to finding it aimless. Readers seeking the listing's satirical and apocalyptic themes may welcome that combination, while those who need a tightly focused narrative or a lighter mood may be less suited to it.
Positive themes
- Customers praise the prose and dark humor.
- Feedback describes the book as entertaining and thought-provoking.
Negative themes
- Some readers find the book depressing.
Mixed feedback
- Plot reactions range from appreciation of its story and underlying ideas to describing it as aimless.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cat's Cradle about?
The listing presents it as a satirical, apocalyptic story about human folly, featuring an invented theology. It does not provide a detailed plot synopsis.
How long is this edition?
The product details list a print length of 304 pages.
What kind of tone should readers expect?
The listing describes black humor and a fatalistic outlook. Customer feedback also notes that the book can feel depressing despite its humor.
Alternative options

Breakfast of Champions: A Novel
$10.97

Mother Night
$15.50

Welcome to the Monkey House: A Collection of Short Works
$10.06

God Bless You, Mr. Rosewater: A Novel
$11.38

Your One Wild and Precious Life: Thoughts on Vocation
$12.32

Government in America: People, Politics, and Policy. by George C. Edwards, Martin P. Wattenberg, Robert L. Lineberry
$35.57

Catch-22: 50th Anniversary Edition
$16.37

The Paschal Mystery and the Gospels
$30.99

Player Piano: A Novel
$11.48

Cannery Row: (Centennial Edition)
$10.48

The Master and Margarita: 50th-Anniversary Edition (Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition)
$10.99

Brave New World
$10.34

























