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Book Nook provides readers with insights into the world of books. Vick Mickunas takes you into the center of the publishing world with the latest book buzz, book reviews, and exclusive chats with authors..Home > Blogs > Book Nook > Archives > 2007 > July > 06 > Entry
a nightmarish look at the future
In 1961 Anthony Burgess was trying to sell the rights to publish his novel A CLOCKWORK ORANGE to an American publisher. He needed money and he accepted an offer to publish it minus the final chapter. That last chapter, the 21st, has never appeared in the American edition of the book, until now.
When Stanley Kubrick made his film version of A CLOCKWORK ORANGE he based his movie on the American edition of the book. Filmgoers from England and the rest of the world who had read the book were puzzled? Why did Kubrick leave off the ending?
45 years have gone by since Burgess published his book. Americans are finally being allowed to enjoy that controversial final chapter. It is included in the new audiobook version.
I confess that I never read the original. I was a huge fan of the film. This new audio version is a revelation. Published by Caedmon and read by Tom Hollander, it is a thing of beauty. If you’ll recall, Burgess invented his own bizarre language for his narrator, Alex. Simply brilliant!
Not only does it include the last chapter, it has the introduction that Burgess wrote in 1986 called A CLOCKWORK ORANGE RESUCKED. Burgess died a number of years ago. They have included a recording of an excerpt read by the author himself.
It’s a lovely package. If you liked the movie you’ll want to check out this audiobook.
The future is now.
Permalink | Comments (3) | Categories: audiobook extra
Comments
By vick mickunas
July 19, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this
Are you saying that you prefer the original American version of the book that is missing the final chapter??By Gonz' in Cincy
July 7, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this
I read the book including the “forbidden” chapter years ago. Surely, fans of the movie would be disappointed at what Alex becomes. Both the movie and the book have their attributes but I prefer the book.By Mark from St Paul
July 7, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this
Hmm, I think I’m going to have to pick up a copy of the Brit version. Like, I would guess most Americans, I read the orange covered paperback and it rocked my world, making me a Burgess fan for life.