Oryx and Crake

Oryx and Crake cover
Good Books rating 4.13

Technical:
  • ID: 636
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-09-18
  • ISBN: 9780748113354
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2009-09-03
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3
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Margaret Atwood's Oryx and Crake is a gripping exploration of a dystopian future where genetic engineering has drastically altered the natural world. The story unfolds through the eyes of Snowman, once known as Jimmy, who lives in a tree, wrapped in old bedsheets, and is haunted by the voice of Oryx, the woman he loved. The novel delves into themes of love, loss, and the consequences of human ingenuity gone awry. The Children of Crake, with their green eyes and mysterious origins, are now Snowman's responsibility, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. Atwood's vivid imagination and sharp wit create a world that is both terrifying and eerily plausible, making Oryx and Crake a compelling read that challenges our understanding of humanity and its impact on the planet.

Reviews
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.

The Guardian · 2014-08-07
intriguing 3.50

The book leaves large unanswered questions, which adds to its intrigue. It's a compelling beach read with a love story woven in.

The reviewer appreciates how the book avoids explaining everything, leaving some questions unanswered. This approach adds depth and keeps the reader engaged. They also highlight the love story as a compelling element, making it a good choice for a beach read. The reviewer enjoys the balance between mystery and narrative.


Quick quotes

    The book avoids the temptation to explain everything away, leaving some large unanswered questions.

    All good beach reads need a love story of some kind.

    The book is a compelling blend of mystery and narrative.