I Am Legend

by Richard Matheson
I Am Legend cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
Technical:
  • ID: 1147
  • Added: 2025-09-27
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • Published: 1954-01-01
  • Formats: 18
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £8.99–£9.99

Robert Neville is the last living man on Earth, or so he believes. He spends his days hunting down the creatures that now roam the streets and his nights barricaded in his home, trying to find a cure for the plague that has turned humanity into vampiric monsters. But when he discovers he is not alone after all, his world is turned upside down. /n/n Richard Matheson's 'I Am Legend' is a groundbreaking work of horror and science fiction that explores themes of isolation, survival, and the nature of humanity. The novel's influence can be seen in countless films and books that followed, making it a cornerstone of the genre.

Reviews
Joe's Notes Blog · 2023-01-29
exciting 4.50

The book is described as very well-written and exciting, with a gripping narrative that keeps readers engaged. The main character's daily struggles and the suspenseful atmosphere are particularly highlighted.

This reviewer found the book to be very well-written and exciting, with a narrative that is easy to get caught up in. They particularly enjoyed the suspense and peril that the main character faces on a daily basis. The reviewer appreciates the way the book maintains a constant sense of tension and excitement, making it a thrilling read from start to finish. They also mention that the book's exploration of isolation and survival is both compelling and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

    This is a very well-written and exciting book to read.

    It is easy to get caught up in the peril and suspense the main character faces on a daily basis.

    The book maintains a constant sense of tension and excitement.

Science Fiction Ruminations · 2022-07-06
influential 4.00

The novel is praised for its influence on the science fiction and horror genres, blending elements of both effectively. It is noted for its timeless themes and enduring impact on popular culture.

This review highlights the novel's significant influence on both science fiction and horror genres, noting how it masterfully blends elements of both. It is particularly admired for its timeless themes that continue to resonate with readers today. The reviewer appreciates the novel's ability to explore deep psychological and societal issues through its post-apocalyptic setting. They also mention that the book's impact on popular culture is undeniable, with its ideas and themes being revisited in various forms of media.

Quick quotes

    An influential SF vampire/zombie novel that spawned three film adaptations.

    Richard Matheson's I Am Legend is an influential SF vampire/zombie novel.

    It is noted for its timeless themes and enduring impact on popular culture.

FictionFan's Book Reviews · 2015-07-20
dystopian 4.20

The book is noted for its dystopian setting and the protagonist's struggle in a near-future world. The reviewer appreciates the novel's exploration of themes such as isolation and the human condition.

This review emphasizes the dystopian nature of the novel's setting, which is described as one of the most bleak and desolate worlds in science fiction. The reviewer appreciates the way the protagonist's struggle for survival is portrayed, highlighting the psychological depth and emotional resonance of his experiences. They also note that the novel's exploration of themes such as isolation, the human condition, and the search for meaning in a desolate world is both compelling and thought-provoking. The reviewer finds the book to be a powerful and memorable read.

Quick quotes

    The book is sci-fi in the sense that it's set in a near-future and involves a plague.

    Neville's world is about as dystopian as you can get.

    The novel's exploration of themes such as isolation and the human condition is both compelling and thought-provoking.

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