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51 pages 1 hour read

Childhood's End

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1953

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Book Brief

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Arthur C. Clarke

Childhood's End

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1953
Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Earth • Mid-20th Century

Theme
Publication Year

1953

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16-18 years

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Super Short Summary

Childhood's End follows the arrival of the alien Overlords, who transform human society over 130 years, leading to the absorption of the world's children into a cosmic entity called the Overmind. Throughout this period, humanity experiences a utopian existence devoid of war and disease but eventually faces its ultimate transformation and end. The book contains references to child loss and suicide.

Mysterious

Fantastical

Contemplative

Melancholic

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Arthur C. Clarke's Childhood's End marvels reviewers with its visionary storytelling and profound philosophical questions, evoking both awe and contemplation. Praised for its speculative scope and emotional depth, some critique its pacing and character development. Overall, it’s hailed as a thought-provoking classic in science fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Childhood's End?

Readers who enjoy Childhood's End by Arthur C. Clarke are often fans of thought-provoking science fiction that explores profound themes like human evolution, alien contact, and utopia. They may also appreciate similar works such as Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 and Isaac Asimov’s Foundation.

Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Earth • Mid-20th Century

Theme
Publication Year

1953

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16-18 years

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