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50 pages 1 hour read

Earth Abides

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1949

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Book Brief

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George R. Stewart

Earth Abides

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1949
Book Details
Pages

345

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

San Francisco, California • Mid-20th century

Publication Year

1949

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

15+ years

Lexile Level

960L

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Super Short Summary

In George R. Stewart’s novel, Earth Abides, graduate student Isherwood “Ish” Williams survives a rattlesnake bite only to find a pandemic has decimated humanity. Returning to the Bay Area, he discovers other survivors and forms a community called the "Tribe." Over years, they strive to rebuild society, confront challenges, and adapt to their new reality as they navigate a changed world. The novel depicts the threat of sexual assault as well as a character’s ableist language and bias.

Contemplative

Melancholic

Mysterious

Bittersweet

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.1

35,332 ratings

72%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

George R. Stewart's Earth Abides is praised for its compelling exploration of human resilience and nature's reclamation post-apocalypse. The novel's introspective prose and philosophical depth captivate readers, while some find its pace slow and character development lacking. Overall, it remains a thought-provoking and influential work in speculative fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Earth Abides?

Readers who will enjoy Earth Abides by George R. Stewart are those fascinated by post-apocalyptic narratives and the resilience of human nature. Fans of Richard Matheson's I Am Legend and Cormac McCarthy's The Road will appreciate its introspective exploration of survival, societal collapse, and renewal.

4.1

35,332 ratings

72%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Isherwood “Ish” Williams

The protagonist and a graduate student, Ish observes the post-apocalyptic world analytically and feels it's his duty to preserve civilization. He views intelligence as paramount and struggles with the Tribe’s adoption of superstition.

Ish’s partner and a source of emotional support, Emma is seen as wise and patient. She challenges Ish's assumptions and provides a counterbalance to his academic mindset.

A British ex-patriot, Ezra plays the role of a sociable extrovert and peacekeeper within the Tribe. He helps to ease tensions and shares Ish’s wariness of Charlie.

The handyman of the Tribe, George maintains infrastructure like plumbing and roofing. He embodies a more anarchistic viewpoint, preferring a world without formal laws.

Seen as the antagonist, Charlie introduces conflict with his charm and rebellious nature. His presence brings issues of justice and moral dilemmas to the forefront of the Tribe.

A minor character with mental disability, Evie is cared for by the Tribe, reflecting post-war attitudes toward mental illness. She is seen through Ish’s critical perspective.

Book Details
Pages

345

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

San Francisco, California • Mid-20th century

Publication Year

1949

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

15+ years

Lexile Level

960L

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