BOOK BRIEF

La colmena

Camilo José Cela
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La colmena

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1992

Book Brief

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Camilo José Cela

La colmena

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1992
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Madrid, Spain • 1940s

Publication Year

1992

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

780L

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Super Short Summary

La colmena by Camilo José Cela intricately weaves various interconnected lives in post-Civil War Madrid. The narrative captures individuals' struggles and complexities, offering glimpses into their daily experiences and social challenges. Through diverse perspectives, the book paints a vivid portrait of Spanish society during a period of transformation and hardship.

Gritty

Melancholic

Mysterious

Nostalgic

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.1

10,825 ratings

64%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

La colmena by Camilo José Cela is praised for its intricate depiction of post-Civil War Madrid, capturing the lives of diverse characters with vivid detail and social critique. Its fragmented narrative offers rich, insightful glimpses into Spanish society. Some critics note the lack of a central plot might deter readers seeking a more linear story. Overall, it's celebrated as a masterpiece of Spanish literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read La colmena?

A reader who enjoys La colmena by Camilo José Cela likely appreciates post-war Spanish literature, societal critiques, and character-driven narratives. Fans of The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck or One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez may find similar enjoyment in its exploration of human resilience and social dynamics.

4.1

10,825 ratings

64%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Madrid, Spain • 1940s

Publication Year

1992

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

780L

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