48 pages • 1 hour read
James HiltonLost Horizon
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1933A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In Lost Horizon, a group of Westerners, including Hugh Conway, is kidnapped and transported to the secluded lamasery of Shangri-La in the Tibetan mountains. As they acclimate to the utopian society, they learn of its promise of longevity and peace, provided they never leave. Conway embraces the serenity, while others are restless to return home, leading to tension and eventual attempts to escape. The book contains derogatory terms for Asian people and displays racist and imperialist attitudes toward non-European cultures.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
James Hilton's Lost Horizon is widely praised for its imaginative storytelling and evocative descriptions of the hidden paradise of Shangri-La. Critics commend the book's exploration of timeless themes such as utopia and human nature. However, some find the pacing uneven and the characters underdeveloped. Overall, it remains a thought-provoking classic in adventure literature.
Who Should Read Lost Horizon?
A reader who enjoys Lost Horizon by James Hilton typically cherishes tales of adventure and philosophical exploration. Fans of works like Life of Pi by Yann Martel and Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad, which delve into the complexities of human nature and utopian themes, will particularly appreciate Hilton's intricate narrative and reflective prose.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsLexile Level
1060L