Cover of Steppenwolf

Classics · Literary

Steppenwolf

3.9 out of 5, from 460 ratings from Hardcover readers

Harry Haller, a middle-aged intellectual who thinks of himself as half man and half wolf, is out of tune with the modern world. Through a chance meeting, he is drawn into a strange series of encounters, including a magic theatre.

Facts last checked 2026-10-16

First published
1927
Pace
Slow
Length
Short
Pages
256
Format
Standalone

Read this if you like strange, philosophical novels about alienation and inner division.

Skip this if you want a straightforward story, since the second half becomes surreal.

The feel

Content warnings

  • Suicide
  • Mental illness

Quick answers about Steppenwolf

What is Steppenwolf about?
Harry Haller, a middle-aged intellectual who thinks of himself as half man and half wolf, is out of tune with the modern world. Through a chance meeting, he is drawn into a strange series of encounters, including a magic theatre.
Who should read Steppenwolf?
Read it if you like strange, philosophical novels about alienation and inner division. Skip it if you want a straightforward story, since the second half becomes surreal.
How long and how fast is Steppenwolf?
It is a slow-paced, short read of about 256 pages, first published in 1927.
Does Steppenwolf have content warnings?
Content we flag: Suicide, Mental illness.
Can I borrow Steppenwolf for free?
Often, yes. Check Libby (OverDrive) to see whether your library lends Steppenwolf; the borrow button above searches it for you.
What should I read after Steppenwolf?
Readers who liked it often move on to Siddhartha, The Metamorphosis, Kafka on the Shore.

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