Leviathan

by Thomas Hobbes, Scott Westerfeld
Leviathan cover
Good Books rating 3.86
Historical Fiction
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Paperback • £4.99–£18.99
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Format • £9.49–£12.34
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Technical
  • ID: 1429
  • Added: 2025-10-05
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9781416987062
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2009-10-06
  • Formats: 75
  • Reviews: 4

Set against the backdrop of World War I, Leviathan introduces a unique alternate history where the Austro-Hungarians and Germans rely on Clankers, steam-driven iron machines, while the British employ Darwinists, using genetically fabricated animals as their weaponry. The story follows Aleksandar Ferdinand, a Clanker, and Deryn Sharp, a Darwinist, whose paths cross in the most unexpected way, taking them aboard the Leviathan, a magnificent whale airship. Their journey around the world is filled with adventure, danger, and self-discovery, ultimately changing both their lives forever. /n/n The novel is the first in a masterful trilogy by #1 New York Times bestselling author Scott Westerfeld, praised for its imaginative world-building and compelling characters. It blends elements of steampunk, biological engineering, and historical fiction, creating a rich and immersive narrative that has been hailed as a future classic.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-10-17
interesting 3.70

This book is recommended for those interested in politics, offering an interesting read with a unique perspective. The reviewer found it engaging and thought-provoking.

The reviewer highly recommends this book to anyone with an interest in politics, praising it as an engaging and thought-provoking read. They appreciate the unique perspective it offers on political thought. While it may not be for everyone, those who enjoy delving into philosophical and political theories will find it particularly rewarding.

Quick quotes

    Overall I think this was a rather interesting read and would recommend it to anyone who makes politics their interest.

    It's a classic that stands the test of time.

    The arguments presented are compelling and thought-provoking.

James Taylor's Creative Life Blog · James Taylor · 2023-01-01
essential 4.75

This book is a monumental work in political philosophy, offering a compelling view on societal organization. It is considered essential reading for understanding political thought.

James Taylor's review underscores the importance of Leviathan in the field of political philosophy, highlighting its enduring influence. They appreciate Hobbes' comprehensive exploration of how societies should be structured and the necessity of a social contract. The reviewer finds the book's arguments persuasive and its insights into human nature particularly compelling. They recommend it as essential reading for anyone interested in political theory and the foundations of modern governance.

Quick quotes

    Hobbes' 'Leviathan' is one of the most important books in political philosophy.

    It offered a view of how we should organise ourselves.

    It is essential reading for understanding political thought.

RR Horton Blog · 2020-05-04
delightful 4.00

They describe it as a thoroughly delightful Young Adult novel. The alternate history based on World War I is particularly praised.

The reviewer found Leviathan to be a thoroughly delightful Young Adult novel, praising its unique alternate history based on World War I. They appreciate the clever integration of historical events with fantastical elements, creating a rich and engaging world. The characters, particularly Alek and Deryn, are highlighted for their compelling arcs and the dynamics between them. The reviewer also notes the delightful fabricated creatures, which add to the overall enjoyment of the story. The book is described as a delightful read that successfully blends history, fantasy, and adventure.

Quick quotes

    Scott Westerfeld's Leviathan is a thoroughly delightful Young Adult novel.

    The fabricated creatures are a delight.

    Alek's attempts to come to terms with his new role in the war and Deryn's struggles to hide her true identity are compelling.

Seriesous Book Reviews · 2017-11-29
clever 3.00

The book has a younger feel but is cleverly crafted. They found it enjoyable, particularly if read a few years earlier.

The reviewer felt that Leviathan had a younger tone, which might make it more appealing to a younger audience. They appreciate the clever craftsmanship of the story, noting that it might have been even more enjoyable if read a few years earlier. The book's unique blend of history and fantasy is highlighted as a standout feature, making it a delightful read for those who enjoy alternate history and intricate world-building. The reviewer also mentions that the characters and their dynamics are well-developed, adding to the overall enjoyment of the book.

Quick quotes

    This book had a bit of a younger feel to it so I might have enjoyed it more 5 years ago.

    It's cleverly crafted and has a unique blend of history and fantasy.

    The characters and their dynamics are well-developed.

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