Set on a ward in an American mental institution, ‘One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ is ultimately a story about freedom. Life on the ward is seen through the eyes of Chief Bromden. Believed to be deaf and mute, the Chief actually decided to simply stop talking, which offers the reader a unique vantage point to the story.

Ruled by nurse Ratched, life in the hospital is ordered and controlled, the same from day to day. Everything is thrown into chaos with the arrival of McMurphy, a gambling addict and loveable rogue. McMurphy challenges Ratched at every step, encouraging the other patients to stand up to the ‘Big Nurse’.

At times hilarious and heart breaking, this is a fascinating story of hope, madness and the human spirit. Totally compelling, I was hooked to this book right up to its tragic ending.

The characters were very well written and brought to life.

An American author, Ken Kesey was inspired to write his debut novel 'One flew over the Cuckoo's Nest' after working on the night shift at a veterans hospital and voluntarily testing hallucinogenic drugs, lending his book a real sense of authenticity.

A great novel that will stay with you.

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Created May 15, 2007 at 3:20pm • Submit your own review...