A Bell for Adano

novel by Hersey

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Awards And Honors:: Pulitzer Prize

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A Bell for Adano, novel by John Hersey, published in 1944 and awarded a Pulitzer Prize in 1945.

The novel’s action takes place during World War II after the occupation of Sicily by Allied forces. Maj. Victor Joppolo, an American army officer of Italian descent, is part of the Allied military government ruling the town of Adano. In his attempts to reform the town and bring democracy to the people by treating them with respect and decency, Joppolo comes into conflict with his commanding officer, a hard-nosed general who eventually has Joppolo transferred because of his refusal to follow orders. Joppolo’s concern for the town is epitomized by his efforts to replace a bell that the fascists melted down to use for ammunition.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Kathleen Kuiper.