The War of the End of the World is one of the great modern historical novels. Inspired by a real episode in Brazilian history, Mario Vargas Llosa tells the story of an apocalyptic movement, led by a mysterious prophet, in which prostitutes, beggars and bandits establish Canudos, a new republic, a libertarian paradise.

'A bold work of force and power, a tragic masterpiece with something of the sweep and freedom of the great novels of the nineteenth century.' Listener

'A vast, fantastic ... Thunderous novel.' The Times