Earth Abides

by George R. Stewart
Earth Abides cover
Good Books rating 4.38
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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  • ID: 1179
  • Added: 2025-09-27
  • Updated: 2025-10-22
  • ISBN: 9781473214330
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2015-06-30
  • Reviews: 4

In the aftermath of a devastating plague that wipes out most of humanity, Isherwood Williams returns from a wilderness trip to find the world he knew gone forever. As he struggles to survive and rebuild, he encounters a female survivor who becomes his wife, and together they form a small community that lives like their pioneer ancestors. However, the challenges of rebuilding civilization prove insurmountable, and they gradually return to a simpler way of life. /n/nThis novel explores themes of resilience, adaptation, and the search for meaning in a world forever changed. It is a poignant reflection on the human condition and the enduring spirit of survival in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Reviews
FictionFan's Book Reviews · 2020-10-14
profound 4.50

The book is praised for its profound exploration of humanity's resilience and the inevitable passage of time, offering a thought-provoking narrative that lingers long after the last page.

The reviewer highlights the book's ability to weave a compelling story around the aftermath of a global catastrophe. They appreciate the way it delves into the human condition, showcasing both the fragility and strength of society. The narrative's philosophical undertones and the protagonist's journey are particularly noted for their depth and impact.

Quick quotes

    The book's exploration of humanity's resilience is both haunting and inspiring.

    It lingers long after the last page, a testament to its profound impact.

    The narrative's philosophical undertones add layers of depth to the story.

SFFWorld · 2015-10-28
timeless 4.00

The book is recommended for its significant influence on the post-apocalyptic genre and its timeless themes that remain relevant today.

The reviewer commends the book for its foundational role in shaping the modern post-apocalyptic novel. They find the themes of survival, societal collapse, and the passage of time to be timeless and thought-provoking. The narrative's ability to resonate with contemporary readers is particularly praised, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.

Quick quotes

    A deeply thoughtful post-apocalyptic vision that remains relevant today.

    The book's themes of survival and societal collapse are timeless.

    A must-read for any reader interested in the genetic heritage of the modern post-apocalypse novel.

Auxiliary Memory · 2010-04-26
masterful 4.75

The book excels in storytelling and philosophy, blending a gripping narrative with deep philosophical questions.

The reviewer admires the book's masterful storytelling and its exploration of philosophical questions. They find the blend of a gripping narrative with profound philosophical reflections to be particularly compelling. The book's ability to engage readers on multiple levels is highlighted as one of its strongest assets.

Quick quotes

    Earth Abides succeeds magnificently at storytelling and philosophy.

    The two most important ingredients that I've come to admire the most.

    A blend of gripping narrative with profound philosophical reflections.

Fantasy Literature · 1949-01-01
existential 4.25

The novel is a quiet, existential exploration of a world stripped of its former glory, asking profound questions about humanity's place in the natural world.

The reviewer at Fantasy Literature highlights the novel's quiet, introspective nature, focusing on the existential questions it raises about humanity's place in the natural world. They appreciate the book's realistic portrayal of survival and the rebuilding of society, noting its significance as a foundational work in the post-apocalyptic genre. However, they also point out that the book's slow pace and lack of action might not appeal to all readers, especially those looking for more fast-paced or action-oriented stories. The reviewer also acknowledges the book's historical context, which includes some outdated attitudes and perspectives that modern readers might find challenging.

Quick quotes

    Earth Abides is a quiet, existential exploration of a world stripped of its former glory.

    The novel's realistic portrayal of survival and the rebuilding of society.

    The book's slow pace and lack of action might not appeal to all readers.

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