How Long Is ‘All the Light We Cannot See’?

Ever wondered about the length of the praised novel ‘All the Light We Cannot See’? You’re not alone! This article will shed some light on exactly how long this fascinating war novel is.

So, how long is ‘All the Light We Cannot See’? Let’s dive into the details of this literary masterpiece and its adaptation to find out.

Length of the Novel

‘All the Light We Cannot See’, written by Anthony Doerr, is a gripping World War II novel that spans across 530 pages in its hardcover edition. The book is known for its short chapters and sentences, which gives it a unique flow that readers find both engaging and easy to follow.

Though the page number might seem daunting, Doerr’s lyrical writing style, coupled with the novel’s intriguing plot and richly developed characters, make it a read that’s hard to put down. The story of Marie-Laure and Werner is told with such detail and emotion that you’ll find yourself absorbed in their world, making the 530 pages feel much shorter.

The Netflix Adaptation’s Runtime

In 2023, Netflix released a four-episode television adaptation of ‘All the Light We Cannot See’. Each episode runs for about an hour, totaling approximately 4 hours of screen time. Given the novel’s dense storytelling and intricate details, condensing it into a four-hour series was no small feat.

The adaptation brings to life the novel’s poignant themes and captivating characters, albeit with some changes and omissions to suit the television format. While some critics have noted that the adaptation’s pace and omitted details differ from the book, it offers a new way to experience Doerr’s story, especially for those who prefer watching to reading.