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Cover of A Clockwork Orange

Science fiction · Dystopian · Classics

A Clockwork Orange

by Anthony Burgess

4.0 out of 5, from 1,445 ratings from Hardcover readers

Fifteen-year-old Alex narrates in an invented slang as he leads a gang through nights of violence. After his arrest, the state tries to remake him through an experimental treatment, raising questions about free will.

Facts last checked 2026-10-16

First published
1962
Pace
Fast
Length
Short
Pages
144
Format
Standalone
Borrow free with Libby Compare prices Save to my shelf

Read this if you like short, audacious novels that challenge you with language and uncomfortable ideas.

Skip this if you are sensitive to graphic violence, or you struggle with heavy invented dialect.

The feel

Content warnings

  • Violence
  • Sexual assault
  • Torture

Also reported by Hardcover readers:

  • Sexual violence
  • Rape
  • Death
  • Suicide attempt
  • Murder
  • Forced institutionalization
  • Vomit
  • Hate crime

Quick answers about A Clockwork Orange

What is A Clockwork Orange about?
Fifteen-year-old Alex narrates in an invented slang as he leads a gang through nights of violence. After his arrest, the state tries to remake him through an experimental treatment, raising questions about free will.
Who should read A Clockwork Orange?
Read it if you like short, audacious novels that challenge you with language and uncomfortable ideas. Skip it if you are sensitive to graphic violence, or you struggle with heavy invented dialect.
How long and how fast is A Clockwork Orange?
It is a fast-paced, short read of about 144 pages, first published in 1962.
Does A Clockwork Orange have content warnings?
Content we flag: Violence, Sexual assault, Torture.
Can I borrow A Clockwork Orange for free?
Often, yes. Check Libby (OverDrive) to see whether your library lends A Clockwork Orange; the borrow button above searches it for you.
What should I read after A Clockwork Orange?
Readers who liked it often move on to Nineteen Eighty-Four, Lord of the Flies, Brave New World.

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