The Twilight World: Discover the first novel from the iconic filmmaker Werner Herzog

Werner Herzog's novel 1944: Lubang Island is based on the true story of a Japanese soldier who defended a small island for twenty-nine years after the end of WWII. Lieutenant Hiroo Onoda was given orders to hold the island until the Imperial army's return and continued to fight his fictitious war, at once surreal and tragic, alone. The novel explores the nature of time and warfare with great mastery and is a literary jewel set to sparkle against Herzog's monumental career in cinema.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 23 March 2023
Publisher: Vintage Publishing

In his debut novel, Werner Herzog weaves a mesmerizing tale inspired by the remarkable true story of Lieutenant Hiroo Onoda, a Japanese soldier who valiantly defended a small island in the Philippines for twenty-nine years after the conclusion of World War II in 1944. Situated on Lubang Island, Lieutenant Onoda received orders from his superior officer to hold the island until the Imperial army's return. Faced with the imminent withdrawal of Japanese troops, Onoda embarked on a protracted campaign, which would span an astonishing period of time. Weeks turned into months, and months into years, as Onoda tirelessly fought his fictional war, employing guerrilla tactics to safeguard the island's territory at all costs.

As the years unfolded, time seemed to melt away, and Onoda found himself immersed in a surreal and tragic existence. Initially, he fought alongside other soldiers, but eventually, he found himself alone, a solitary figure in a novel of his own creation. This extraordinary journey, marked by unwavering determination and an unwavering commitment to his mission, is at once captivating and profoundly introspective.

Werner Herzog's novel seamlessly blends fact and fiction, creating a fever dream of a narrative that delves into the intricacies of time and warfare. With great mastery, Herzog weaves together historical events and fictionalized elements to craft a profound exploration of human resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring impact of war.

This literary jewel is set to sparkle against the backdrop of Herzog's monumental career in cinema, adding another dimension to his already illustrious legacy. Herzog's unique perspective and profound storytelling abilities have made him a revered figure in the world of film, and his debut novel is a testament to his talent and creativity.

In conclusion, Werner Herzog's debut novel is a mesmerizing exploration of the nature of time and warfare, inspired by the remarkable true story of Lieutenant Hiroo Onoda. Through his masterful storytelling, Herzog weaves a tale that is both captivating and introspective, offering a profound reflection on the human condition and the enduring power of resilience in the face of adversity. This novel is a testament to Herzog's talent as a writer and a filmmaker, and it is sure to resonate with readers and fans alike.

Weight: 110g
Dimension: 128 x 196 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529116243