The Day of the Triffids

by John Wyndham
The Day of the Triffids cover
Good Books rating 3.88
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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Paperback • £9.99 Hardback • £16.99
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Format • £9.49–£16.14
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Technical
  • ID: 1146
  • Added: 2025-09-27
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • Publisher: Wildside Press LLC
  • Published: 2001-08-01
  • Formats: 130
  • Reviews: 4

John Wyndham's 1951 classic post-apocalypse novel introduces the terrifying concept of triffids—walking, man-eating plants that prey on humanity in a world left blind by a cosmic disaster. Only a handful of sighted people remain, and it is up to them to rebuild civilization and fend off the relentless triffids. The novel explores themes of survival, adaptation, and the fragility of human society in the face of an unprecedented threat. Written in the early 1950s, 'The Day of the Triffids' is a seminal work in the post-apocalyptic genre, blending science fiction with a chilling exploration of human nature. The novel's unique premise and gripping narrative have made it a timeless classic, inspiring countless adaptations and influencing the genre for decades.

Reviews
nsfordwriter.com · N S Ford · 2025-10-22
admirable 4.00

The book is praised for its British grit and realistic portrayal, with a likable narrative voice that displays some outdated attitudes. It's admired for its straightforward survivalist adventure and exploration of disaster.

N S Ford appreciates the book's British grit and realistic portrayal, finding the narrative voice of Bill particularly likable. They note that while the book displays some attitudes that might be considered outdated today, it's a straightforward survivalist adventure that explores the nature of disaster. The reviewer admires the book's ability to keep the focus on the characters and their struggles, making it a compelling read.

Quick quotes

    It's very British, gritty and realistic.

    Bill's narrative voice is likable and displays some attitudes that are a little outdated.

    At base it's a straightforward survivalist adventure, with little in the way of frills or fancy.

The Bandar Blog · 2025-09-27
intriguing 3.00

The post-apocalyptic world depicted is intriguing, but the story falls short in some areas. The Triffids, while interesting, are not as central to the plot as one might expect.

This reviewer finds the novel's premise fascinating but feels that the execution could have been stronger. They appreciate the post-apocalyptic setting and the exploration of human behavior in crisis situations. However, they feel that the Triffids themselves are somewhat underutilized, and the story could have benefited from more focus on these iconic creatures. The reviewer also notes that some of the characters and their decisions are not as compelling as they could be, which detracts from the overall impact of the story.

Quick quotes

    Day of the Triffids by John Wyndham is a post-apocalyptic world story that on the whole, fell a little short for me.

    The Triffids, while interesting, are not as central to the plot as one might expect.

    Some of the characters and their decisions are not as compelling as they could be.

Pumpjack Press · 2023-03-26
delightful 4.00

The book is a delightful blend of horror and adventure, with a narrative that is both engaging and prophetic. The Triffids are a memorable and terrifying creation.

This reviewer finds the novel to be a rollicking good read, filled with moments that are both creepy and thought-provoking. They appreciate Wyndham's ability to create a sense of impending doom while also delivering a gripping survival story. The Triffids themselves are a standout element, serving as both a physical and metaphorical threat. The reviewer also notes that the novel's themes of societal collapse and human resilience are timely and relevant.

Quick quotes

    A droll little horror masterpiece, a rollicking good read and more than a little creepy and prophetic.

    The Triffids are a memorable and terrifying creation.

    The novel's themes of societal collapse and human resilience are timely and relevant.

Arcadia Pod · 2023-01-08
chilling 4.50

The novel is a chilling exploration of societal collapse, with vivid imagery that lingers long after reading. The characters and their struggles feel deeply human and relatable.

This reviewer highlights the novel's haunting depiction of a world gone wrong, praising its ability to create a sense of desolation and dread. They appreciate the way Wyndham weaves together scientific plausibility with human drama, making the story both terrifying and thought-provoking. The characters' reactions to the crisis are particularly well-drawn, adding depth to the narrative. However, the reviewer notes that the pacing can feel uneven at times, with some sections dragging slightly.

Quick quotes

    The Day of the Triffids is perhaps the most famous catastrophe novel of the twentieth century.

    Its startling imagery of desolate streets and the struggle for survival is unforgettable.

    The characters' reactions to the crisis are particularly well-drawn.

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