Which Vonnegut Novel to Read First? So you want to read a Vonnegut novel, but not sure which one? I recommend beginning with one of these four: Cat’s Cradle (1963) I consider this to be the first (chronologically) of his best novels. It’s also a great introduction to Vonnegut, and it’s easy-to-read, through his use of short chapters and fast pacing. Opens with a Moby-Dick reference, explores religion, science, war, and the apocalypse, and includes some very fun characters.