BOOK BRIEF

The Iron Dream

Norman Spinrad
Guide cover placeholder

The Iron Dream

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1986

Book Brief

Sparkles iconBeta
Norman Spinrad

The Iron Dream

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1986
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Alternative Universe • 1970s

Publication Year

1986

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Iron Dream is a metafictional novel by Norman Spinrad. It presents an alternate history where Adolf Hitler, as a science fiction writer, pens a popular fantasy novel. The book explores themes of fascism and authoritarianism through a satirical lens, reflecting on how ideologies can be intertwined with popular culture.

Mysterious

Dark

Fantastical

Unnerving

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

3.8

1,976 ratings

57%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Spinrad's The Iron Dream is a provocative exploration of fascist ideologies through speculative fiction. Praised for its audacious narrative and incisive satire, it challenges readers to reflect on the nature of power and propaganda. However, some find its approach controversial and unsettling, questioning the efficacy of its satire. The novel remains a bold yet polarizing read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Iron Dream?

A reader who enjoys satirical, dystopian narratives with political undertones, reminiscent of 1984 by George Orwell or Brave New World by Aldous Huxley, would appreciate The Iron Dream. This audience relishes alternate histories and critiques on authoritarian ideologies wrapped in speculative fiction.

3.8

1,976 ratings

57%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Alternative Universe • 1970s

Publication Year

1986

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!