Station Eleven

by Emily St. John Mandel
Station Eleven cover
Good Books rating 4.53
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
Technical:
  • ID: 681
  • Added: 2025-09-19
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9781447268963
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2014-09-10
  • Formats: 70
  • Reviews: 4
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Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99
Bookshop
Format • £9.49

Station Eleven is a captivating exploration of art, fame, and human connection in the wake of societal collapse. The novel weaves together the lives of six individuals, from the glittering days before the Georgia Flu to the transformed world twenty years later. As the Travelling Symphony brings culture and hope to survivors, the story delves into the enduring power of art and the relationships that sustain us even in the darkest times. The narrative shifts between past and present, revealing the intricate connections among its characters. From the renowned actor Arthur Leander to the young actress Kirsten, each person's journey is touched by the pandemic and the prophet's ominous presence. This beautifully written novel asks profound questions about the value of art and the resilience of the human spirit.

Reviews
Bookshelf Discovery · 2025-05-13
thought-provoking 4.75

The book is incredibly thought-provoking, challenging readers to consider what truly matters in life. The Traveling Symphony's motto, 'Survival is insufficient,' resonates deeply.

The reviewer finds 'Station Eleven' to be a deeply thoughtful and provocative novel that challenges readers to reflect on the essence of human existence. They highlight the Traveling Symphony's motto, 'Survival is insufficient,' as a powerful theme that runs throughout the book. The reviewer appreciates how the novel explores the importance of art and culture in a world that has been stripped down to its basics. They believe the book's ability to make readers ponder the value of their own lives and choices is one of its greatest strengths. The reviewer also notes that the novel's multiple timelines and interconnected characters create a rich and engaging narrative.

Quick quotes

    It's an incredibly thought-provoking book.

    The travelling Symphony have a saying on the side of one of their caravans - 'Survival is insufficient'.

    The novel's exploration of art and culture in a post-apocalyptic world is particularly compelling.

A Little Book Problem · 2023-08-04
heart-wrenching 4.75

The book is described as a beautiful and heart-wrenching exploration of life's priorities in a world where almost everything is lost.

The reviewer at A Little Book Problem finds Station Eleven to be a deeply moving and beautiful novel. It explores what is truly important in life, especially in a world where almost everything has been lost. The story's emotional depth and poignant moments make it a memorable read. The reviewer appreciates the novel's ability to evoke a range of emotions, from sadness to hope.

Quick quotes

    The book is a beautiful, heart-wrenching and moving exploration of what is important to us in life.

    It is a story that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.

    Station Eleven is a testament to the power of art and human connection in the face of adversity.

Books on the 747 · 2019-09-21
fascinating 4.50

The novel is described as fascinating, terrifying, and beautiful, making it a unique and special read.

The reviewer from Books on the 747 finds Station Eleven to be a truly special novel that is equal parts fascinating, terrifying, and beautiful. The story's unique approach to the post-apocalyptic genre sets it apart from other books in the same category. The reviewer encourages readers to pick up this book for its compelling narrative and thought-provoking themes. The novel's ability to blend different emotions and ideas makes it a standout read.

Quick quotes

    Equal measures fascinating, terrifying and beautiful, Station Eleven is truly something special to read.

    I encourage you to do so, as it is a unique and captivating experience.

    The novel's exploration of art and survival in a post-apocalyptic world is both compelling and thought-provoking.

Goodreads · 2019-09-21
brilliant 4.10

The novel is a unique and captivating exploration of a world after a devastating pandemic. It stands out for its lack of typical dystopian tropes, offering a fresh perspective.

The reviewer describes 'Station Eleven' as an audacious and darkly glittering novel that sets itself apart from other post-apocalyptic stories. They appreciate the absence of typical dystopian elements like zombies, which allows the story to focus on more nuanced and human aspects of survival. The reviewer finds the novel's exploration of art, relationships, and the little things that make life worth living to be particularly compelling. They believe the book's unique approach makes it a standout in the genre, offering a thoughtful and engaging read.

Quick quotes

    An audacious, darkly glittering novel set in the eerie days of civilization's collapse.

    It's brilliant. Station Eleven is a dystopian novel but not like any you've read before.

    The Georgia Flu pandemic is a backdrop for a story about art, relationships, and what it means to be human.

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