A Canticle for Leibowitz

by Walter M. Miller, Jr.
A Canticle for Leibowitz cover
Good Books rating 3.75
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
Technical:
  • ID: 1150
  • Added: 2025-09-27
  • Updated: 2025-09-27
  • ISBN: 9781473211117
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2014-12-22
  • Reviews: 3

In the aftermath of a devastating apocalypse known as the Flame Deluge, the Utah desert becomes a sanctuary for the Order of St. Leibowitz. These cloistered monks dedicate themselves to preserving and studying the remnants of pre-war science, treating them as holy relics. Their mission is to raise humanity from its fallen state to one of grace through the rediscovery of knowledge. However, the novel delves into the ethical and philosophical implications of this mission. As the monks uncover more about the past, they grapple with the question of whether this knowledge will lead to redemption or condemn humanity to repeat its catastrophic errors. The story explores themes of faith, science, and the cyclical nature of human history.

Reviews
Ruined Chapel · 2024-01-26
somber 3.75

The book is not a feel-good tale but captures the zeitgeist of the 1950s and '60s with themes of space travel and nuclear war.

Ruined Chapel's review notes that the book is not designed to be a feel-good read but rather a serious exploration of post-nuclear holocaust themes. They appreciate how it captures the essence of the 1950s and '60s zeitgeist, including themes of space travel and the looming threat of nuclear war. The review suggests that the book's somber tone and thought-provoking content make it a significant work in science fiction.

Quick quotes

    The book, in short, is not really a feel-good tale.

    It does include two of the hallmarks of 1950s and '60s zeitgeist: space travel and nuclear war.

    A somber and thought-provoking exploration of post-nuclear holocaust themes.

Tarvolon · 2023-12-15
profound 4.00

This book is a profound exploration of faith and knowledge in a post-apocalyptic world. The narrative is deep and thought-provoking, though occasionally slow-paced.

Tarvolon's review highlights the book's unique blend of science fiction and religious themes, praising its depth and philosophical questions. They appreciate the way it portrays the preservation of knowledge and the cyclical nature of human history. However, they also note that the pacing can be slow at times, which might not appeal to all readers. The review suggests that the book is best suited for those who enjoy thought-provoking and introspective reads.

Quick quotes

    A profound exploration of faith and knowledge in a post-apocalyptic world.

    The narrative is deep and thought-provoking.

    Occasionally slow-paced.

The New Yorker · 2014-10-22
thought-provoking 3.50

The book has aged well but lacks female characters, which is a notable flaw. Its themes remain relevant and thought-provoking.

The New Yorker's review acknowledges the book's timeless themes and its ability to provoke deep thought. They point out that the near absence of women is a significant drawback, which might be jarring for contemporary readers. Despite this, they appreciate the book's exploration of human civilization and its potential future, making it a compelling read for those interested in post-apocalyptic fiction.

Quick quotes

    Canticle has aged well, but for many contemporary readers the book will have a glaring flaw: a nearly total lack of women.

    It envisions a potential course for human civilization that's both chilling and thought-provoking.

    A sprawling, intricate post-apocalyptic novel that blends religious faith with science fiction.

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