51 pages • 1 hour read
Childhood's End
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Book Brief
224
Novel • Fiction
Earth • Mid-20th Century
1953
Adult
16-18 years
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
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 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.
Karellen
Karellen
Karellen is an Overlord who appears as a devil-like figure and is present throughout the novel. Serving as a liaison between the Overlords and humanity, he guides Earth's transformation with a benevolent yet authoritative presence and reflects on the Overlords' inability to evolve.
Rikki Stormgren
Rikki Stormgren
Stormgren is a mediator between humans and Overlords, known for his dedication to his role and his loyalty to Karellen. He embodies human curiosity and independence in his desire to learn more about the Overlords, while maintaining discretion with his discoveries.
George Greggson, Jean Morrel, and Jeffrey Greggson
George Greggson, Jean Morrel, and Jeffrey Greggson
George and Jean are depicted as parents in the narrative, with their son Jeff playing a crucial role in unfolding events. George represents traditional values and a search for meaning, while Jean is associated with maternal instincts and a connection to a larger cosmic phenomenon. Jeff's experiences symbolize the novel's themes of childhood and transformation.
224
Novel • Fiction
Earth • Mid-20th Century
1953
Adult
16-18 years
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