The book is written as a novel and as such it is lousy. The plot is slow in developing, the descriptions are long and boring and most of the dialogs are likewise long and boring. All of the above makes for slow and difficult reading.

The philosophy presented in the book is a different matter. Some of it is definitely not feasible in the real world – the same way Marxism is not feasible. “To all according to their need and from all according to their ability” always deteriorates into either a dictatorship (Soviet Union) or, if implemented partially like in most of Europe, it results in a stagnant economy.

Ayn Rand’s philosophy as presented in Atlas Shrugged needs an ideal man and therefore is an impossible utopia. Parts of this philosophy can, probably, have practical implementations. The scenario described in the book is uncannily similar to what we are witnessing in this country in the last century and with much greater intensity in the last year. Even some of the terminology used by the “looters” is the same.

Al in all a difficult read not because of the intellectual heights it soars to but because of the way it’s written. If you don’t mind investing some time and effort it may be worth trying.