The Girl with All the Gifts

by M. R. Carey, M.R. Carey, M R Carey
The Girl with All the Gifts cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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Paperback • £9.99
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Technical
  • ID: 1186
  • Added: 2025-09-27
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • ISBN: 9780316278140
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2014-06-10
  • Formats: 15
  • Reviews: 4

In the ruins of a fallen civilization, Melanie, a remarkable girl with an extraordinary mind, is kept in a secure facility. Every day, she is wheeled to class, guarded by armed soldiers, hinting at a world far more dangerous than it seems. Her innocence and intelligence captivate Dr. Caldwell, who sees her as the answer to humanity's desperate plight. However, the true nature of Melanie's existence and the secrets she holds could either save what remains of the human race or doom it forever. /n/nThe Girl With All the Gifts is a gripping exploration of love, survival, and the ethical dilemmas that arise in the face of extinction. Praised by Joss Whedon for its heartfelt and remorseless portrayal of humanity, this thriller delves into the complexities of a world on the brink, where the line between savior and destroyer is perilously thin.

Reviews
Grimdark Magazine · 2025-05-21
thought-provoking 4.50

The book is praised for its well-written and thought-provoking narrative. It remains engaging and relevant more than a decade after its publication.

Grimdark Magazine highlights the enduring appeal of 'The Girl with All the Gifts', noting its inordinately well-written and thought-provoking nature. They appreciate how the book delves into complex themes and maintains its relevance over time. The reviewer finds the characters and plot compelling, making it a standout read in the genre. The book's ability to provoke deep thought and discussion is particularly emphasized, making it a memorable and impactful story.

Quick quotes

    Altogether, The Girl with All the Gifts remains an inordinately well-written and thought-provoking read more than a decade after its original publication.

    Carey's world-building is impressive, creating a believable and chilling post-apocalyptic landscape.

    The characters are well-drawn and engaging, making the reader invested in their fates.

Rosalyn Kelly · Rosalyn Kelly · 2019-08-16
Brilliant 4.50

The book is an intelligent and gripping zombie story with a brilliant ending. It is both exciting and thought-provoking.

Rosalyn Kelly finds the book to be a standout in the zombie genre, offering an intelligent and gripping narrative. She particularly praises the brilliant ending, which adds a layer of complexity to the story. The reviewer appreciates the exciting and thought-provoking elements, making it a compelling read. The character of Melanie is highlighted as a key strength, adding depth and interest to the plot.

Quick quotes

    This is a zombie book that is intelligent, exciting and gripping.

    With a BRILLIANT ending.

    Melanie is in some kind of secure facility being taught about the world.

The Guardian · 2014-01-15
Great 4.00

The story explores themes of parental love and trust between a child and an adult. It is a poignant and thought-provoking narrative.

The reviewer focuses on the emotional core of the story, which revolves around the relationship between a child and an adult figure. They appreciate the exploration of trust and love in a post-apocalyptic setting. The narrative is described as poignant and thought-provoking, offering a fresh perspective on familiar themes. The reviewer values the depth of the characters and the emotional resonance of their journey.

Quick quotes

    It's a parental love story – about a child deprived of parents and an adult who wishes to fulfil that role.

    How they go about learning to trust each other.

    A poignant and thought-provoking narrative.

Goodreads · 2014-01-14
Excellent 5.00

The book features a fascinating pathogen and distinct characters, culminating in an unexpected and awesome ending. It is praised as an excellent read.

The reviewer is captivated by the unique pathogen and the well-drawn characters in the story. They highlight the unexpected and thrilling ending as a standout feature. This book is described as a must-read, earning the reviewer's first 5-star rating of the year. The combination of engaging characters and a compelling narrative makes it a standout in the genre.

Quick quotes

    But with a fascinating pathogen, distinctly drawn characters, and unexpected (and AWESOME) ending of its own.

    First 5 star read of 2014!

    Full of suspense and emotion.

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