How to Be Alone

How to Be Alone

2002 • 288 pages

Ratings15

Average rating3.2

15

Collection of some of Franzen's essays, including the one known as "the Harper's essay". Some are edited or tweaked from their original printings. A mixture of topics but well-written and enjoyable; Franzen is as thoughtful as ever.

Become a Librarian

Reviews

Popular Reviews

Reviews with the most likes.

If it weren't for the post office essay I would've given this one star.

June 23, 2019

Re-read — fascinating to revisit Franzen's thoughts on privacy, bureaucracy, culture, reading, technology in 2022. Holds up surprisingly well.

September 25, 2022