summary

Summary

«The Beach» is a novel by Alex Garland, first published in 1996. It tells the story of a young Brit named Richard who sets off in search of the perfect beach and a true adventure in Thailand. After receiving a map promising an unknown paradise on earth, he embarks on a journey to a remote island with two new acquaintances, a French couple named Étienne and Françoise. There, they discover a secluded community of travelers living in isolation from the outside world. The novel explores themes of utopia, civilization versus nature, and the quest for personal happiness. Over time, the idealistic paradise turns dangerous and destructive, and Richard confronts the darker side of human nature and the consequences of escaping reality.