The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared

Jonas Jonasson, Transl. Rod Bradbury
60 pages2-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Adult
Published in 2009

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Book Brief

Jonas Jonasson, Transl. Rod Bradbury

The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

396

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Modern Classic Fiction

•

Humor

•

Historical Fiction
Setting

Sweden • 2000s

Theme
Friendship

•

Fate

•

Community
Topic
World History
First Publication Year

2009

Publisher

Hachette Books

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared, centenarian Allan Karlsson escapes his nursing home to avoid his 100th birthday party and embarks on an adventure filled with remarkable travels and escapades, both present and past, including encounters with historical figures, explosive situations, and a suitcase containing $5 million. The story contains vivid descriptions of violence and frequent alcohol use.

Humorous

Adventurous

Playful

Mysterious

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

3.9

366,551 ratings

68%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Jonas Jonasson's The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared, translated by Rod Bradbury, delights with its dark humor, quirky characters, and an adventurous plot. Interweaving flashbacks are engaging but chaotic at times, risking disorientation. Despite this, most critics laud it as an entertaining, whimsical read with a vibrant narrative.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared?

Individuals who relish dark humor, quirky characters, and irreverent adventures will enjoy Jonas Jonasson’s The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared. Similar audiences may appreciate the absurdity of Kurt Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse-Five or the wit of Christopher Moore’s Lamb.

3.9

366,551 ratings

68%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

The centenarian protagonist who embarks on an impromptu adventure that involves encountering many historical figures. Known for his practical attitude, Allan prefers avoiding ideological commitments and prioritizes acceptance and humor in his interactions.

A 70-year-old amiable petty thief who becomes one of Allan's close companions. Known for his creativity and pragmatism, Julius plays a crucial role in the group's escapades.

A versatile and almost expert in various fields, Benny is drawn into Allan's journey. His charm and budding romance with The Beauty add depth to his character.

A lively and morally-driven woman referred to as "The Beauty," who joins Allan's group with her Alsatian dog and circus elephant. She often challenges their ethical boundaries during their adventures.

A minor criminal with a gang called "Never Again," who becomes entangled with Allan's group after a pursuit. Pike's transition into a member of the group highlights the evolving dynamics among the characters.

Benny's estranged brother who provides refuge to Allan's group on his farm. Known for finding religious inspiration during the narrative, his interactions reveal family tensions and resolutions.

A diligent detective embroiled in the pursuit of Allan's group, who becomes disillusioned with his work. His eventual collaboration with the group marks a turning point in the narrative.

An eager but often impulsive attorney seeking recognition. His tendency to jump to conclusions informs much of the narrative's tension with law enforcement.

Book Details
Pages

396

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Modern Classic Fiction

•

Humor

•

Historical Fiction
Setting

Sweden • 2000s

Theme
Friendship

•

Fate

•

Community
Topic
World History
First Publication Year

2009

Publisher

Hachette Books

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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