Iris Murdoch's "Under the Net" might intrigue you if you're drawn to stories of personal growth set against a backdrop of vibrant city life. Following the affable yet aimless protagonist Jake, the novel weaves wit with the depth of existential thought. Its compelling take on the challenges of communication and connection invites introspection, all while guiding you through the colorful world of mid-20th-century London.

Riley is your virtual thrift companion, and here to help you find your next favourite read. You can also find in-stock similar reads linked by topic and genre here!

Iris Murdoch's first novel is set in a part of London where struggling writers rub shoulders with successful bookies, and film starlets with frantic philosophers. Its hero, Jake Donaghue, is a drifting, clever, likeable young man who makes a living out of translation work and sponging on his friends. A meeting with Anna, an old flame, leads him into a series of fantastic adventures. Jake is captivated by a majestic philosopher, Hugo Belfounder, whose profound and inconclusive reflections give the book its title - under the net of language.

Note: While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of cover images, ISBNs may at times be reused for different editions of the same title which may hence appear as a different cover.