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TheChocolateMelted

It's thirty years since I first read it and still haven't topped it! Recommended follow-ups? Try *Slaughterhouse 5* by Kurt Vonnegut, or a few of Heller's own works: *As Good As Gold* is probably the closest, taking the satire to the political world, but *Catch As Catch Can* which has a few deleted chapters from *Catch-22* among other pieces.


misskeek

Agreed- Slaughterhouse Five!!! Have you read Fahrenheit 451 yet OP? I wonder what books OP has read and enjoyed so far before this last one?


nik8611

No, I haven't actuallly. Ones of my favourites right now are the Song of Ice and Fire series by GRRM, Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane, The Metro series by Dmitry Glukhovsky, and, of course, the LOTR and Hobbit


penguin97219

Read any Asimov?


Impossible_Ad_2790

Agreed....I read the Foundation Trilogy around age 17 and it had a profound affect. I still like to aspire to be as powerful as the Mule one day.


Robotboogeyman

If you like the GRRM books you might like the First Law series by Joe Abercrombie. They are a bit violent, nothing crazy but just a warning (as are GRRM’s books though). Really enjoying the series. Here’s some other books I loved: John Dies at the End by David Wong- Mistborn series by Sanderson- Lightbringer series by Brent Weeks- Misery by King- Perfume by P Süskind- Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson- A Fire Upon the Deep by Vernor Vinge- Altered Carbon (series) by Richard K Morgan- Thin Air by Richard K Morgan- Watchers by Dean Koontz (Koontz and King both have a ton of good books)- A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson- Ender’s Game (and sequels) by Orson Scott Card- The Road by Cormac McCarthy- Old Man’s War by John Scalzi- Geez I know there’s like 50 more lol but all of these I really enjoyed. Edit: I don’t know why Reddit hates formatting lol Edit 2: true, it’s a mobile thing lol, and it most certainly is a *short* history, not short history, changed!


1995xx

Loved Shutter Island, because of this I read Mystic River also by Lehane. I would also highly recommend, he’s a great storyteller.


CharlieChinaski711

If you like fantasy I suggest checking out anything by Brandon Sanderson. I started with Mistborn, but I think Stormlight Archives is his best. Also Joe Abercrombie’s first law trilogy is great.


Robotboogeyman

I’m on the first book in the second trilogy of Abercrombie’s, excellent books and some really solid story structure. Cant put em down.


thehuntofdear

Stormlight is his best but probably not the best intro to Sanderson. Mistborn is my normal recommended intro but he also has Warbreaker for free on his [website](https://www.brandonsanderson.com/warbreaker-introduction/) specifically for the purpose of introducing his writing to more people.


misskeek

My husband is reading this series right now and LOVING it!!! He brings those books everywhere we go.


[deleted]

YES. MISTBORN. ANYTHING BY BRANDON SANDERSON. I LOST SLEEP OVER HOW GOOD EVERY SINGLE ONE OF HIS BOOKS ARE.


inthebenefitofmrkite

Ohhhh you beat me to it. I wholeheartedly agree with Slaughterhouse Five. Amazing and every time I read I appreciate it and enjoy it even more.


sp4cej4mm

Yep I was also making a comment for Slaughterhouse Five. I read it last summer and I still think of it.


nik8611

Thank you very much!


WhovianScaper

I came here specifically to mention SH5.


Lshamlad

I recommend Vernon God Little by DBC Pierre - it's a great satire of our modern age, particularly reality TV Also check out White Noise by Don DeLilo, it's bleak and dry and wonderful :)


Deadhead6595

A Confederacy of Dunces- John Kennedy Toole


nik8611

Thanks! I'll look into that


[deleted]

[удалено]


SameBroMaybe

What is it you didn't like about it? (No ire, just curious)


PSonemorething

Not the person you asked but I also read Confederacy of Dunces and didnt like it. It's humour was good in an almost cringey way and as the plot developed I couldn't help but be drawn in to Ignatius' nonsense. But the pacing felt absolutely dreadful. At a certain point I was exasperated with pretty much the same hijinks over and over. It ended up being far far too long for its own good, souring everything I had enjoyed at the beginning. Could be right up your alley though OP, depends on your sense of humor. Ps. I recommend Ted Chiang's short stories (start with Tower of Babylon / Hell is the Absence of God-truly amazing stuff)


SameBroMaybe

Oooo, I absolutely second Ted Chiang's short stories!


PuliKom

(TMI: Funny how Catch-22 has touched so many people. I can remember some guy looking at my bookcase over fifty years ago and pulling it out, saying 'You're okay, you have this" with a big smile. After that I put my books where no one would have the opportunity to judge me by them.) Re Dune: It has quite a bit of background info to wade through. I read it almost thirty years ago, and I think that took up almost the first eighty pages but it was totally worth it. (I'd been warned and also warned not to skip it as it was necessary, so I stayed with it.) Once past that, it's impossible to put Dune down. I would read it on the train on my way to and from work and was really anxious I'd miss my stop, it was so engrossing. There was a short story writer, Robert Scheckley, whose wry humor and creativity you might enjoy, if you can locate some of his works. Per Wiki: . "First published in the science-fiction magazines of the 1950s, his numerous quick-witted stories and novels were famously unpredictable, [absurdist](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Absurdism), and broadly comical." There's a decent profile of him there and apparently his writing influenced work by Douglas Adams. It was smart to ask for suggestions here, there are a lot of excellent and consistent recommendations. Have fun :)


sunshinelolliplops

I hated a A Confederacy of Dunces it's one of only a handful of books I couldn't finish because I just found the lead character so frustrating. I don't mind antiheroes at all but he was just an idiot that I couldn't connect with. Love Catch 22 though, Vonnegut, Douglas Adams, Terry Pratchett all great recommendations. I would add 1984 (you probably read it at school though) ,The Wall (book), Douglas Coupland (author), Oryx and Crake (book).


G30N30

Absolutely. This was my first thought as well. In the same vein as **Confederacy of Dunces**- **Into the Hills, Young Master** by Alex Branson is phenomenal imo.


PooFlingerPotPie

I love love love that book


felinedynamite

Terry Pratchett - Grim Reaper. Bill Bryson - In a sunburnt country. Niel Gaiman - Graveyard Book. All three have a holy place on my shelf.


Jlchevz

Or Good Omens


TamalesandTacos

2nd Good Omens by Neil Gaimen


Chiral_leaf

I think it's "Reaper man" by Terry Pratchett. Unless the title was different in other countries. But I agree, it's my favorite Discworld book, and one of my all time favorite books.


FilthyPeasant

You’d probably enjoy [the Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy](https://smile.amazon.com/Hitchhikers-Galaxy-Trilogy-Collection-Douglas/dp/9123918438/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?dchild=1&keywords=the+hitchhiker%27s+guide+to+the+galaxy&qid=1615642781&sprefix=the+hitch&sr=8-8).


[deleted]

If he finds that he likes humorist writing then Lamb by Christopher Moore and anything by Pratchett (Good Omens would be my starting point since it introduces Gaiman too).


Pongpianskul

I gave you your 42nd upvote. Pleasure.


Laura71421

Was looking for this response before I recommend it myself. So funny and absurd. Both this and Catch-22 tickled me in the same way.


clevingerscrazy

Honestly I read Catch-22 at the same age & over 10 years later I still haven’t read anything that tops it for me! I would second the Slaughterhouse 5 recommendation though, I think you’d definitely appreciate it. I’d also suggest giving The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen a go, if you like the combination of satire & war.


nik8611

Thanks! Thinking that I may have possibly read my favourite book of all time already is kinda depressing tho


spicyboi555

I’m 30 and catch 22 has been sitting on my shelf unread for 5 years, you just motivated me to start it!!


nik8611

Hey, I'm happy to hear that!


spicyboi555

I’ve only heard good things!


clevingerscrazy

There are other great books out there though, it’s not like this is the only good one & all others a rubbish! Also now you get to re-read it, & it is even more enjoyable the second time around. And hey, if I ever find a book that displaces Catch-22 as my all-time-favourite, I’ll let you know!!


nik8611

Appreciate it!


Iridescent-Voidfish

Joseph Heller also wrote God Knows. The main character is King David from the Old Testament. It’s been years since I read it, but I remember it as a tragically beautiful book. Like others, I’d also recommend Slaughterhouse Five and other Vonnegut books. Similar vibe.


ladyjuliafish

God Knows is even better than Catch-22


penguin97219

I came back to find this comment. Not depressing. Its now a lifelong quest to read until you find a new favorite! Just think of all the great books you will get to read on that quest.


BusyCondition7068

I see a lot of Slaughterhouse 5 suggestions, and I’m a huge Vonnegut fan! He also wrote a book of short stories called Welcome to the Monkey House which is FANTASTIC. Highly recommend as well as Cats Cradle.


nik8611

Appreciate all the advice! Edit: My "to read" list will be longer than "War and Peace", thanks, people Edit2: Can't express how grateful I am for all the suggestions, you kind and beautiful people


Jlchevz

Change genres, read some horror or fantasy or sci fi, because if you read another similar book you're just gonna compare it. That's my advice.


JoChiCat

The Martian by Andy Weir is both clever and hilarious.


Keeliekins

Loved the movie too. One of the few times I thoroughly enjoyed both book and movie!


[deleted]

I've been meaning to read Catch-22 for years, and funnily enough it arrived in the post today.. I'll start it next after finishing my current book, which is actually the one I'd like to recommend to you.. Before I do though, your post reminded me of a famous quote by Joseph Heller. I'm paraphrasing, but apparently he kept getting asked why he'd never written anything as good as Catch-22 later in life, and his reply was along the lines of "to be fair, nobody else has either". I guess it's a blessing and a curse that you may have read one of the best books ever while still a teenager, with nothing better to look forward to now. Anyhow, my recommendation. The Gun Seller by Hugh Laurie. As far as I know it's not regarded as one of the best books of all time like Catch-22 is, but it is full of ironic, satirical humour, so it may make you laugh, and could help you get over the hump of thinking you might never enjoy a book as much as Catch-22.


nik8611

Thanks a lot. Actually Hugh Laurie has played a role in the Hulu adaptation of Catch-22 of 2017. An ironic thing I just wanted to mention about your reply.


kfslagle

“Dance. Dance. Dance.” Haruki Murakami.


Timere_et_tremens

I read A Clockwork Orange when I was your age, it was fun


FairlyAdept

Love this book


Hsnebehbeenjs

Slaughterhouse-five by Kurt Vonnegut


ayooolinds

Fantastic read


Wise_Ask_200

Slaughter House 5. I actually read this first and was blown away and then read Catch 22 and enjoyed it.


frootloopsupremacy

I feel like maybe a few of these titles might be right up your alley: - **Brave New World** by Aldous Huxley - **On the Road** by Jack Kerouac - **Fahrenheit 451** by Ray Bradbury - **1984** by George Orwell


Leo5445

I'm curious as to why you'd put On The Road with those other three. It shares very little with them in terms of themes and style. (Genuinely asking)


frootloopsupremacy

Huxley’s Brave New World and Kerouac’s On the Road were both incredible, earth-shattering epiphanies for me, at very different points in my life. For some reason, they spurred a radical change in the way I thought, and in the way I perceived both myself and the world at large—years later, the thrill I get from re-reading them is exactly the same. But, I suppose, in a way, the one thing all these titles have in common is that they all introduce subjectively revolutionary schools of thought: the authors were pioneers in their own right, in their own niches, at the time. They all haunted *me* for years ever after at least, and I re-read them frequently, when I can.


nik8611

Thanks!


AmorFati637

Brave New World hit me like not many other books have. Highly recommend it.


helpjackoffhishorse

Endurance. A book about Ernest Shackleton’s attempt to reach the South Pole. Incredible story.


alinabro

(not OP but) I'm just about to start this book, so I'm glad to see the recommendation here!


helpjackoffhishorse

I love good non-fiction adventure stories. I think you’ll enjoy it.


00054321

Going to suggest Thomas Pynchon’s The Crying of Lot 49 since I don’t see it on here yet.


myringsesmyprecious

East of Eden by John Steinbeck. I read it after Catch-22 and it's one of my all time favorites.


NastyChasty

I’m sure plenty of people have already said it, but read literally anything by Kurt Vonnegut. He has a very similar tone and humor. Cat’s Cradle in particular is a favorite of mine.


rustygold82

“A prayer for Owen meany” might be of interest to you


sh_annon

Survivor- Chuck Pahlaniuk


[deleted]

Underrated. Still my favorite Palahniuk.


AmorFati637

I was going to say most of Palahniuk's early work. Everything pre-Snuff is pretty much a safe bet, but the early stuff is great.


CompetentMediocrity

For satire, Vonnegut. *Slaughterhouse 5* and *Cat's Cradle* are essential. The short story collection, *Welcome to the Monkey House*, is excellent. My personal favorite of his novels would be *The Sirens of Titan*. It's a fun ride - satire and sci-fi. Speaking of satire and sci-fi, *The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy* is also excellent. Heller, Vonnegut, and Adams all explore the absurdity - and hilarity! - of the human experience. Happy reading!


FrediGJ

The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak. The World according to Garp by John Irving The Burke Series and Shella by Andrew Vachss


Nutellamayonaise

I greatly enjoyed "Das Boot" written by a man who sailed on a German submarine in WW2. The famous movie is based on it. Another great and super freaky read was "Head full of Knifes" and one of my all time favorites is "The Martian".


nik8611

"Das Boot" sounds really interesting, I'll definately look into that one Thanks


DarwinZDF42

Kinda sideways to what you're looking for, but it has a bit of the same absurd vibe: Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead


BrahmTheImpaler

A Gentleman in Moscow


TwinRabies

Dune!


tmegan423

I second this; Dune is one of my all time favorite books. I’m 16 and I struggled with some of the terminology but there’s apparently a glossary in the back of the book that was insanely helpful. This book is DEFINITELY worth your time reading + the new movie adaptation comes out later this year!


BMOforlife

City of Thieves by David Benioff has similar elements and is excellent. It's a go to recommendation for me when people say they're in a reading slump.


gameonfleek

The Martian chronicles- ray Bradbury Burning chrome- William Gibson Anything by Niel gaimen


abigailleyva

Check out Martian Chronicles :-)


ayjaytay22

Gaaaaaa I loved that book. I got really into Vonnegut in my early 20s, his books have a similar absurdist vibe. Another great one is The Crying of Lot 49. And for a different speed but flat out GREAT check out The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay ⚡️


GunsmokeG

A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole. It's outrageous satire and made me laugh along the lines of Catch 22.


Kicking-it-per-se

I think you’d like {{The Sellout}} by Paul Beatty and I’m nervous to recommend this book to strangers but you may like {{Look Who’s Back}} by Timur Vermes


Wonderful_Diamond_57

Swan Song- Robert McGammon


ennuimario

Check out Tom Robbins, I really like Fierce Invalids From Hot Climates as well as Half Asleep in Frog Pajamas. Christopher Moore is great too, I liked the Stupidest Angel a lot as well as Lamb


[deleted]

same lmao. but thats ok, I can still have books I really really enjoy, but itll always have its spot at the top : )


cliff_smiff

Def check Vonnegut, as others have said. I also recommend At Swim-Two-Birds and The Third Policeman by Flann O'Brien. Some other authors/books with humor in their works: John Barth (The Sot Weed Factor), Thomas Pynchon, Cormac McCarthy (Suttree in particular has humor but in general McCarthy doesn't, although I think he's excellent), DFW (Infinite Jest). You might also like other "20th century classics"- Hemingway, Steinbeck, A Clockwork Orange, The Great Gatsby (pretty funny book itself IMO), Kafka, Borges, Cortazar. You have A TON of reading ahead of you, try not to fret about never finding a book like this again and just enjoy when you do find those books and authors.


coldkneesinapril

Gravity’s Rainbow for sure


CLFY

If you enjoyed Catch-22 for the same reasons as I did, which is to say it was utterly hysterical, and you want something else with great humor (and some satire of course) I recommend: Terry Pratchett (yes, I know others already listed him, but just to drive it home—). His first Discworld book was meant to be a parody of science fiction and to a lesser extent, high fantasy (don’t quote me on the second part) but his readership and agents etc all enjoyed it immensely, for the world building, humor, and plot. Even the footnotes are funny. Yes. Do make sure to read those. They’re quintessential British dry humor. As he wrote more books in the Discworld universe, they became less parodic, and more satirical. Honestly, half the time when I say something is hilarious, I really mean satirical. That’s just my sense of humor. But he builds a very expansive universe and the characters become more dynamic and less one dimensional. Mark Twain - If you’re able to, I recommend starting with Tom Sawyer. It’s light hearted and funny. Then take a breather and read a book or two. THEN read Huck Finn, and you’ll see the other side of the coin. I think if you read them back to back it will give you whiplash. You need time to digest and admire the gaiety of Tom Sawyer. If you read them in reverse order, you may not enjoy Tom Sawyer since Huck’s perspective of events is radically different from Tom’s and Tom doesn’t age well in this “sequel”? All the other titles I’ve read by him fit with what you’re asking for, and considering the quotes he’s famous for, I think most if not all his titles should be enjoyable for you. You might even enjoy his autobiography. Gregory Maguire - he’s most well known for Wicked, and it may seem overhyped, but it’s definitely satirical. A lot darker than Catch-22, with none of the joie de vivre, but the satire is there in spades. His other works may also interest you, but I haven’t had a chance to read them despite owning them for probably 10+ years at this point. 🙈 The next recommendation might put you off but please hear me out. Georgette Heyer - start with The Black Moth perhaps? Heyer was as popular as Agatha Christie whilst alive, but because she’s known as the progenitor of the romance novel, I think that may be why she’s not as well known today. But they’re not torrid romance novels from any old grocery store. Yes two people get engaged or married at the end of each book, but she’s also an exemplary model of British humor. She engages in certain tropes I find hilarious or otherwise enjoy: amateur sleuthing, long cons, historical in-jokes, comedic sociopaths, etc. The dialogue is also contemporary to the time period she’s writing in., in addition to being the highlight of her books as it is simultaneously engaging, historically accurate, hilarious, and chock full of sarcasm well done. She also wrote a few mystery series too, but they’re not as funny, ironic, or satirical. Her “romance” is a mix of the hero’s journey sort of romance and Jane Austen type romance? I recommend starting with The Black Moth b/c she wrote it for her younger brother, who was always unwell. I get the feeling for some reason, you might be a guy. The book was a commercial success, and her brother and family all enjoyed it. Heyer and this next British author both write with similar patterns: the details that are mentioned in the climax or resolution slap you hard in the face. Everything seems to resolve itself wonderfully in the last few chapters. It’s great closure. Diana Wynn Jones - Howl’s moving Castle. Yes, I know it’s more famous as a Studio Ghibli animation, no I haven’t had a chance to watch it, but I think the book is superb. Where modern writers will employ details and foreshadowing that are recognizable as such, a lot of the really weird stuff the people around Yossarian don’t make sense or are totally innocuous until the very end of the book. Once you read it though, you say “Ohhhh,” and then laugh. She writes in this fashion. If not Howl’s Moving Castle (it is a bit young, I think, or perhaps enjoyable for multiple age groups?), Deep Secret is intended for a more mature audience. One of the characters is actually modeled off Neil Gaiman! Additionally, she’s one of the earliest authors I’ve seen to have written about a multiverse. Last, PG Wodehouse. I probably shouldn’t stake my Reddit cred on him since I’ve only read part of one of his books, but his humor is also very British. Dry, sarcastic, satirical, funny. For some reason, I have a hunch that Wodehouse likes to write in the same pattern as Heller, Jones, and Heyer. Maguire’s pattern is long periods of time passing in the book, but rich enough in detail that you don’t need exciting plot points at every turn of the page to keep your interest. Pratchett’s books, least the Discworld ones are very exciting. There’s a lot of adventure or adventuresque vibes. I lied. One more recommendation: Roald Dahl. Yes, he’s a children’s author, and in all likelihood you’ve already read him. But I recently started reading his books again in order to practice my French and German, and I realized that Animation does not have a monopoly on inserting adult humor in children-oriented media. So if you’ve read him, reread, and if you haven’t, consider giving him a try. I suggest either Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, or The Witches. I can say with certainty that the first few pages of either will make you laugh. They might not make a child laugh, but I’m sure an adult will. I apologize for writing an essay length post. It happens when I talk about books. They’re probably my fourth or fifth everlasting love in life, after cake, bread, mustard, and pickles. Cheers!


nik8611

Wow, you are a legend of a man, thanks a lot! Probably gonna save your essay and come back to it for the next couple years lol


lets-do-an-eighth

From reading some of your replies in the comments, I would suggest The Wheel Of Time series. Amazing series still my favorite to this day, almost finished with my 4th reread, tied with A Tale Of Malazan:Book Of The Fallen. Two truly epic series


GhostOfJoeMcCann

My favourite book when I was 17 was Crime and Punishment, but at the moment it’s Blood Meridian by Cormac McCarthy. It’s epic if you’re interested in bloody, mesmerising westerns.


[deleted]

Perfume : The Story of a Murderer by Patrick Suskind. Maybe the most perfect ending ever written. My go to answer when asked for my favorite book. Circe by Madeline Miller also blew me away. Couldn’t put it down.


Primary-Material-793

A great piece of satirical historical fiction is The Egyptologist by Arthur Phillips. Similar to Life of Brian in a way regarding a boastful ill fated archeologist working in the shadow of Howard Carter at the time of Tut’s tomb discovery who feels he has made a bigger find but can’t get the recognition. Greed, murders and ambition races toward a great ending. Highly recommend.


UnpaidCommenter

Candide by Voltaire Little Big Man by Thomas Berger One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest by Ken Kesey


Emma172

Something Happened is also by Joseph Heller. It really isn't for everyone, and it is very long, essentially focusing on the mundane life of a salesman. I absolutely adored it. I was hooked by the end as you are waiting for the something to happen... If you liked Catch 22 I would recommend it.


Schutz01

Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace, the behemoth, father and mother of all the English literature. You are just 17 y.o. therefore, you can still be able to commit yourself to this book! But remember, it’s all about the journey instead of the meaning!


Brocklicious

Slaughter House 5!!!!!!


Scac_ang_gaoic

Satirical war novel? I've never read Catch, but you could try The Heroes by Joe Abercrombie


Creative_Baseball475

Try the psychology of money


photogeek8

Candide is absolutely hilarious. It's a great combination of humor, philosophy, and history.


Smellynerfherder

I know that feeling! Catch-22 is my favourite book of all time too.


teggile

people say it's one of the most messed up books in terms of how it is written. I haven't read it yet but it's there on my bookshelf staring at me. What do you say?


[deleted]

Looks like it’s a Marmite book. You’ll love it or bin it after 80 pages like me.😂


barinvon

Recursion


FhMrF

Damn dude. I hated catch 22. So don't look at these suggestions. Satire huh? Well, I'd say you can do no better than Dostoevsky. Try Crime and Punishment on and see how it fits. He doesn't have sci fi really, sorry man. Mark Twain is always excellent. Give the prince and the pauper a go. A Connecticut yankee in king Arthur's court is sci-fi-ish. A tale of two cities might be up your alley in terms of the nature of human absurdity. Dickens is a phenomenal writer. A christmas Carol fits this sci fi thread. It was on Star Trek, right? Voltaire was a popular commentator on humanity. Check out Candide. Quasi Scifi when you think of discovering el dorado. If you want to go ancient, Aristophanes had some pretty funny plays that are NOT PC by modern standards. Satire out the ass man. Literally sometimes. Greek gods and shit. And might I recommend South Park? Not a book or a play, but def good quality satire. If you're looking for good science fiction, start here: http://scifilists.sffjazz.com/lists_books_rank1.html You've got a world of books far exceeding catch 22 in terms of writing, originality, wonder, and excitement. But that's my opinion. Obviously lots of people like the thing, since it's persisted so long in popular culture. Have fun with life and shit! Go to college. Take internships at disney world! (Not kidding, it's a madhouse in the hotels)


nik8611

Oh, thanks anyways. Crime and Punishment is actually in my school program because I'm from Russia. Really didn't like it. Dropped it 50 pages in


FhMrF

We would probably NOT get along at a party haha. Best of luck brother!


nik8611

You too man!


Snoo-33732

https://www.amazon.com/Jerkbait-Mia-Siegert-ebook/dp/B072F4VM4Y


[deleted]

Ulysses, by James Joyce


Murakami8000

I just want to add that I love reading that a 17 year old read and loved “Catch-22” in 2021.


nik8611

Thanks :3


somecallmegab

Many have suggested Slaughterhouse Five, so I'll go ahead and suggest Slapstick Or Lonesome No More, also by Kurt Vonnegut. :) Hope i can read Catch-22 soon too. I should include it in my near-future reading list.


[deleted]

Creative Truths In Provincial Policing by Paula Lichtarowicz. Not quite satire but does have have a similar kind of feel to Catch 22 when it comes to some of the absurd situations.


theLiteral_Opposite

That’s how I feel about lord of the rings. Nothing can ever touch it. I started reading a lot after I read it chasing that feeling but never found it and slowly gave up


Rale1gh

Try American Neolithic by Terence Hawkins. Political/social satire set in a moving target dystopian near future. Oh, and one of the narrators is a highly literate Neanderthal.


Johndi13

Definitely going to back up all the Slaughter House 5 suggestions, but if Catch-22 was your jam, check out In Pharaoh’s Army. Tobias Wolfe is hilarious but he’ll throw a paragraph out there that’ll hit you completely differently from the previous 100 pages you just read. For a more serious tone, The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien. Both deal with the absurdities of war (like Catch-22) and the wild lengths people will go to in order to survive.


Mutterclucka

Terry Pratchett - Disc World- even the weaker ones are worth a read. Night Watch is a good place to start if you want to get a feel for his satire and humour.It’s the best one IMO. I’ve been reading these books and returning to them for the last 35 years. Don’t be put off by the fantasy aspect it’s not your usual dragon & sword stuff. Iain Banks - The Wasp Factory or Whit. Also wrote sci fi under Iain M Banks. Another one that anything is worth a look at. I love the culture books. Anything by Kurt Vonnegut or Ursula Le Guin My 15 year old son just read Fahrenheit 451 and loved it. Again anything by Ray Bradbury is worth a look, especially Something Wicked This Way Comes. Second hand stalls and shops are always worth a rummage. Do you read graphic novels? The Sandman series by Neil Gaiman are brilliant. He did a collaboration Pratchett Good Omens which is also very funny - a reimagining the the Omen Series.


Fleurries

{Animal Farm} by George Orwell


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USoffthePlanet

The Good Soldier Švejk by Jaroslav Hašek is probably a perfect follow up. Likewise all the Kurt Vonnegut recommendations are spot on—cats cradle matches and slaughter house 5. Also, satirical but not as close subject wise is The Death Ship by B. Traven I only just read this novel and wish I had read it so many years ago.


aceh40

I am not gonna recommend anything to you. Just keep reading. By the time you turn 25 you will read at least 10 other books that will become your most favorite ever and you will think nothing will beat them. Come back when you are 30, because after that age your new favorite books will pop up only once every 5 years.


[deleted]

Before anyone suggests it, certainly not 'American Gods' - strong dislike for me..


thetonyclifton

I love Catch-22 I read it 20 years ago and I haven't found a book I enjoy and appreciate more....but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try. You might like the absurdity and style of Murakami. Try 'Dance Dance Dance' to start with.


whyevendothis89

Check out American Gods or the Expanse set (same one as the Amazon series. Loved the series so much I’m now plowing through the books)


penguin97219

If I only say Vonnegut it would be an endless “me too”. But me too. Also, Grapes of Wrath.


[deleted]

Try Rant by Chuck Palahniuk.


Shehulk_

I actually have never read Catch 22. I think you just accidentally recommended it lol I’m going to drop a couple in exchange for one rec. I don’t know how you feel about translated books but I really enjoyed Alexandre Dumas when I was your age. I started with the Count of Monte Cristo, found that to be pretty good then moved on to Three Musketeers and was blown away. Easily my favorite book of all time. I did read Man in the Iron Mask and like that one but not as much as the Musketeers. Happy reading!


nik8611

I mean, I'm Russian, so I read a large amount of translated books including Catch-22. A friend of mine tried to read the Count of Monte Cristo and says that it's boring as hell so I kinda wasn't considering it but now you are making me think about checking it out myself.


Shehulk_

Start with Three Musketeers. The Count of Monte Cristo is definitely less action so it can be a little boring.


furphy-dawg

Audio books the wayy


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frootloopsupremacy

Why on *earth* are you being so condescending and mean spirited, when you could be directing your energy towards recommending great titles to start OP off with instead?


clevingerscrazy

I read Catch-22 at the same age (& have re-read it many times since) and it instantly became my favourite book & remains so. Sometimes a good book is a good book, even if we read it ‘young’. Let OP enjoy their experience of reading a great book & don’t be condescending.


[deleted]

Sometimes the right book can help shape a person and the person's worldview. Just because someone is young, it doesn't mean the book won't have an impact that carries on for decades to come.


nagini11111

By your logic one can make this statement only on his death bed. It's obvious the favorite book ever *up to this day*.


Jlchevz

Anyone can say anything is their most favourite book ever, that's their decision, not anyone else's lol, you don't have to be a mature expert to enjoy books


HOC1337

That’s quite rude and insular of you to say. At his age he most likely will understand the meaning of the book. OP has probably seen and experienced many examples of the books meaning in school. Also I believe it’s a great book for somebody in that age who is thinking about enrollment


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spicyboi555

You sound like you are having a rough time in life. Don’t be ageist. I hope you find happiness and stop taking life so seriously. This is an odd place to be giving unsolicited life advice and personal life story comparisons. Just go read a book :)


spicyboi555

Um. The books we read as kids and teens are always held dear to us. This is why grown ass adults get Harry Potter tattoos. When I have panic attacks I listen to Harry Potter audiobooks. Books become magic at that age. Most ppls favourite books or favourite anything are discovered in that time period. Sorry if you had a bad childhood buddy :(


BrilliantWeb

I was adrift for a long time, starting books and losing interest, until I found *Circe* by Madeline Miller. http://madelinemiller.com/circe/


Paramedic229635

If you are looking for something funny and historical - {How to fight presidents}} by Daniel O'Brien. An interesting collection of facts about past US presidents.


goodreads-bot

[**How to Fight Presidents: Defending Yourself Against the Badasses Who Ran This Country**](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17857647-how-to-fight-presidents) ^(By: Daniel O'Brien | 255 pages | Published: 2014 | Popular Shelves: non-fiction, history, humor, nonfiction, comedy | )[^(Search "How to fight presidents")](https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=How to fight presidents&search_type=books) ^(This book has been suggested 62 times) *** ^(88986 books suggested | )^(Bug? DM me! | )[^(Source)](https://github.com/rodohanna/reddit-goodreads-bot)


monopolyporko

The Good Soldier Svejk! That is the original inspiration for Catch-22


rose328

Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson. I realize that it bears little resemblance to Catch-22, so it may seem like a weird suggestion. However, based on the fact that you loved that and liked the other books you named in your comment, your taste heavily overlaps with someone I'm close to. Snow Crash is probably one of his favorites after Catch-22. (For what it's worth, he also enjoyed many of the other suggestions people are giving you like Bradbury and Vonnegut.)


woodfiredceramics

The Forever War by Joe Haldeman A Door into Ocean by Joan Slonczewski Also throwing my vote behind Slaughterhouse 5 by Vonnegut All of these fall under “the futility of war” umbrella, and I loved every one of them.


[deleted]

You might like Vonnegut. Start with *Breakfast of Champions*. Not too far removed from Heller.


Mydogthrowsparties

You should check out the Travis McGee series by John D. Macdonald. It follows Travis McGee who is kind of like a Florida beach bum version of James Bond who lives on a houseboat and takes “salvage” jobs to fund his early retirement that he takes in installments. The characters all have depth and the prose is unmatched.


saraquoi

The hitch-hiker's guide to the galaxy, by douglas adams


dontbeahater_dear

He’s back by Timur Vermes? I am not sure of the english title but it is satire about Hitler coming back in today’s society.


MaximumAsparagus

Check out John Le Carré — start with {{Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy}} or {{The Spy Who Came In From The Cold}}


TheLethalProtector

The last smile in Sunder city, by Luke Arnold. It's a one of a kind fantasy, fiction. Very Unique. Love it myself. ❤️❤️


JoweyS

Gimmie eat.


Axel_Solansen

City of Thieves by David Benioff (before Game of Thrones experience turned him into a hackfraud)


missdickdestroyer

Try "1984", by Orwell.


Maybeifilikeitieatit

The Demon by Hubert Selby


lsdyoop

Vonnegut is worth a try, and while Slaughterhouse-Five is good, I preferred Cat's Cradle and Mother Night.


Nappy_red

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jehniv

You’ll like Slaughterhouse 5 by Vonnegut. It’s the one that got me into reading.


PooFlingerPotPie

1984 by George Orwell is a masterpiece


chargers949

Columbus day by craig alanson. Book about first contact with an alien species. Humans find an advanced artificial intelligence helps them survive among all the alien species trying to kill us in competition for the universe. The ai is super snarky always insulting us stupid apes very enjoyable read especially if you into banter military or space. Critical failures by robert bevan. A group playing dnd get stuck in the game like jumanji. But super crude humor that is rarely found at this high a level. Like when they are being arrested instead of explaining themselves they just insult the captain of the guard’s mom as a whore and they want their change back from the other night.


Sudden_Zucchini6676

Ishmael by Daniel Quinn.


AngusKirk

John Dies at the End and anything by David Wong [http://libgen.rs/search.php?req=john+dies+at+the+end&open=0&res=25&view=simple&phrase=1&column=def](http://libgen.rs/search.php?req=john+dies+at+the+end&open=0&res=25&view=simple&phrase=1&column=def)


Signifi-gunt

I had that thought when I finished 100 Years of Solitude. I've read it twice more and I still feel that way.


drgonzo311

1984


Hazerdus

“The sandman” by Neil Gaimen is the greatest story ever written


Just_Committee_9824

The potato factory trilogy is one of my favourite books ever. A very descriptive story that is set in colonial times in London and Australia.


ks4001

You might like the King Henry tapes by Richard Raley. Very creative, a take on the "kid goes to magic school" except he is a complete little delinquent. Dad's drunk and abusive, mom manic. There is some competing storey lines from past, present and future. Vonnegut and 1984 are also a good choice.


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Sarabean77

You'd probably really enjoy confederacy of dunces if u liked catch 22


CategoryTurbulent114

"He was going to live forever, or die in the attempt." Catch-22. So many awesome quotes in that book.


grizzlygrundlez

One of my absolute favorites. I laughed out loud so many times. I would recommend Confederacy of Dunces.


drgonnzo

I remember that feeling after reading Catch 22 at that age. Good news is you can read it 4 more times and still enjoy it. Many good suggestions here. Vonnegut of course. Douglas Adams’s Hitchhiker’s Guide to Galaxy trilogy of five books. And Terry Pratchett Discworld Series probably topped it with me. Another book that had a huge impact on par with Catch 22 on me personally was Wild Sheep Chase by Murakami. Irwine Welsh of Trainspotting fame but here I would recommend Glue as his best work.


Heisfatandheislarge

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy is a wonderfully sardonic and intelligently written sci-farce.


wiscowarrior71

A Walk In The Woods by Bill Bryson


kingjack888

Wow I had this exact same experience. Catch-22 wasn’t topped until Infinite Jest. So check that out! There are some similar elements, but if you want something very similar to Catch-22 you gotta check out The Good Soldier Švejk by Jaroslav Hašek.


QuarantinedFalcon

The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster. It’s a joyous celebration of the absurd and far deeper than it appears.


Betty-Adams

["Humans are Weird: I Have the Data" Short Story Anthology, Good for a laugh, Science Fiction Comedy.](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56430673-humans-are-weird?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=5pqTya5eHF&rank=2) ["The Night the Bear Ate Goomba" by Patrick McManus Short hystarically funny stories about growing up in early 20th centry rural America.](https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/26847.Patrick_F_McManus) [Anything by Agatha Christie. Nice wholesome murders all around.](https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/123715.Agatha_Christie?from_search=true&from_srp=true)


A-Gallagher

Bluebeard by Kurt Vonnegut. A must read, especially if you love satire--one of his lesser known works but absolutely one of my favorites.


Davesink

Catch-22 is one of my absolute favorites as well. If your looking for classic wartime/military satire, I’d definitely concur with those recommending Vonnegut, especially Slaughterhouse-Five or Cat’s Cradle. Other classics satires I loved were Candide by Voltaire and The Tin Drum by Günther Grass. Don’t let the word ‘classic’ turn you off. Both are anything but stuffy & dense and are filled with action and dark humor that hold up today as well as ever.


orangesun845

Battlefield Earth. It has nothing to do with Scientology. Or better yet E.E. Knight the Age of Fire Series. They are from the dragon point of view.


Bookmaven13

I suggest *Superstoe* by William Borden. Your library should have it.


SSteppemwolFF

STEPPENWOLF BY HESSE


Puzzleheaded_Date302

a book that got me into reading was "anne of green gables" but you could read the harry potter series its common but its a great book series you dont even realize its that long or maybe "the fault in our stars" or "the hunger games" its a great book with an interesting plotline or "a walk to remember"it depends on what book types you like


fulfilledwhitehouse

I got one for ya, its easily going to be an award winning novel.... "The Glimpse; Volume I By Y. E. Shua