Catch-22 is a satirical novel written by Joseph Heller that was first published in 1961. The book is set during World War II and follows the story of Captain John Yossarian, a U.S. Army Air Forces B-25 bombardier who is stationed on the fictional Mediterranean island of Pianosa. Yossarian is desperate to avoid flying more missions and tries to convince the doctors that he is insane so he can be grounded. However, he soon finds himself trapped in a bureaucratic nightmare known as Catch-22, where he cannot be grounded for being insane because anyone who wants to be grounded must be sane.
Heller's writing style is fast-paced and filled with dark humor, which makes the book both entertaining and thought-provoking. The characters are memorable and the dialogue is sharp and witty. The novel tackles serious themes such as the absurdity of war, the failures of bureaucracy, and the struggle for individuality in a system that seeks to strip it away.
Catch-22 is a classic novel that has stood the test of time and remains relevant today. It is a must-read for anyone interested in war literature, satire, or just a good story. Overall, Catch-22 is a brilliant and compelling novel that will leave readers thinking long after they have finished it.