Oryx and Crake

by Margaret Atwood
Oryx and Crake cover
Good Books rating 4.35
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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Paperback • £10.99
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  • ID: 636
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9780748113354
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2009-09-03
  • Formats: 25
  • Reviews: 4

Margaret Atwood's 'Oryx and Crake' is a gripping exploration of a future where humanity has been drastically altered by scientific advancements. The novel follows Jimmy, now known as Snowman, as he navigates a world filled with genetically modified creatures and the remnants of a society that has collapsed. Haunted by the memory of Oryx, the woman he loved, Snowman must protect the mysterious Children of Crake, who seem to be the last remnants of a new human experiment. The story is a blend of dark humor, tragedy, and profound reflection on the consequences of unchecked scientific progress. Atwood's vivid imagination and sharp prose bring to life a world that is both terrifying and fascinating. The novel delves into themes of love, loss, and the ethical dilemmas of genetic engineering. With its richly drawn characters and thought-provoking narrative, 'Oryx and Crake' is a must-read for fans of speculative fiction and dystopian literature.

Reviews
Nusantara Naga · 2021-03-24
intriguing 4.50

The book explores futuristic concepts like genetic modification in a way that feels both plausible and unsettling. The reviewer finds the themes and ideas compelling, even if some aspects are unsettling.

The reviewer is captivated by the book's exploration of futuristic concepts, such as genetic modification, which are presented in a way that feels both plausible and unsettling. They appreciate the depth of the themes and the thought-provoking nature of the narrative. The reviewer notes that the book's ability to depict such advanced ideas makes it a unique and intriguing read. However, they also acknowledge that some of the themes might be disturbing to certain readers, adding to the book's overall impact.

Quick quotes

    Oryx and Crake absolutely depicts things we can't yet do or even begin to do, like the ability to modify human mating behaviour to the degree we see in the her.

    The themes and ideas in this book are compelling and thought-provoking.

    It's a book that stays with you long after you've finished reading.

Madeleine Reads · Madeleine · 2021-01-09
thought-provoking 4.00

The book's exploration of a pandemic is both shocking and thought-provoking. Madeleine found the narrative compelling and timely.

Madeleine was struck by the book's exploration of a pandemic, which she found even more shocking than the current pandemic. She appreciated how the story delves into the consequences of such events on society and individuals. The narrative is compelling and timely, making it a relevant and impactful read. Madeleine also highlighted the book's ability to keep the reader engaged throughout.

Quick quotes

    Oryx and Crake is a story about a pandemic, one that is, if you can believe it, even more shocking than the one we are currently living through.

    The narrative is compelling and timely.

    It's a book that makes you think about the world in a different way.

Efsunland · 2019-08-28
brilliant 4.40

The writing is wonderful despite the grim subject matter. The reviewer gives it a higher score than expected.

The reviewer was surprised by how much they enjoyed the book, given its grim subject matter. They praise the writing as wonderful, which elevates the overall reading experience. The reviewer acknowledges the dark themes but appreciates the quality of the writing, leading to a higher score than initially anticipated.

Quick quotes

    The writing itself is wonderful.

    Grim subject matter aside, there are moments of brilliance.

    A higher score than I expected to give.

Dystopic · 2017-11-18
great 4.50

The novel is praised for its emotional depth and the importance of sentiment in storytelling. It's a thought-provoking read.

The reviewer was blown away by the book, particularly the emotional depth it brings to the story. They emphasize the importance of sentiment in a novel, which makes the reading experience more impactful. The reviewer finds the book thought-provoking and engaging, highlighting its ability to evoke strong emotions.

Quick quotes

    It reminded me of the importance of sentiment in a novel.

    It doesn't take a genius to figure out that I was blown away by Oryx and Crake.

    The novel is a thought-provoking read.

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