Originally Published: February 1, 1962

By: Ken Kesey

A classic novel that created a defining protagonist and villain that has also consistently been on the most banned books lists, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest is a story of the oppressed fighting the powerful.

Narrated by a patient – Chief Bromden – faking being deaf, the eccentric Randle Patrick McMurphy becomes the newest member of a psychiatric hospital. The floor’s head nurse, Miss Ratched, quickly clashes with McMurphy’s ways, while the other patients begin to idolize him.

Having Bromden be the narrator instead of McMurphy was a smart move on author Ken Kesey’s part. It allows you to see the situation unfold as if you were a patient as well instead of being inside McMurphy’s manic brain.

The story flows well, though at times it can be a tough and slow read.

Final say: Don’t mess with this nurse. ★★★☆☆