How do you describe Catch-22? It's an absurd book, that's the only word for it. It doesn't go in chronological order and leaves the reader hanging often. However, the author's style is effective- the reader only feels confused when they are supposed to feel confused (which is most of the time). The book revolves around a bomber named Yossarian who may or may not be crazy. The book is told from his rambling perspective, which adds to the aforementioned confusion. Yossarian doesn't want to be fighting this war; he only wants to live. This book is at times funny, at times surprisingly serious, but always a good read. The author strives (and succeeds) in pointing out the ironies in war and in every day life.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone. It is surprising and unexpected and not like anything you've read before. I don't know anyone but Joseph Heller who could pull off a book so confusing, so crazy, and yet so good.