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39 pages 1 hour read

Ecotopia

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1975

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Book Brief

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Ernest Callenbach

Ecotopia

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1975
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Pacific Northwest • 1990s

Publication Year

1975

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Ecotopia by Ernest Callenbach is set in a timeline where Washington, Oregon, and Northern California have seceded from the U.S. to form Ecotopia. Reporter William Weston visits, aiming to explore and reestablish ties. His articles and journals reveal his growing appreciation for Ecotopian sustainability and equality. His experiences, including a relationship with Marissa, ultimately lead to a profound change in his outlook.

Inspirational

Contemplative

Fantastical

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

3.9

6,281 ratings

57%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

15%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Ernest Callenbach's Ecotopia garners praise for its pioneering vision of a sustainable society, appealing to environmentalists with its innovative ecological concepts. Critics appreciate its hopeful outlook but note its dated aspects and occasionally implausible scenarios. Some feel character development is lacking, while others commend its inspirational narrative. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read with mixed execution.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Ecotopia?

Readers who enjoy Ecotopia by Ernest Callenbach are often interested in environmentalism, utopian fiction, and progressive social ideas. Comparable to Brave New World by Aldous Huxley and The Dispossessed by Ursula K. Le Guin, they favor exploring speculative societies and ecological sustainability.

3.9

6,281 ratings

57%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

15%

Not a fan

Character List

William Weston

An American journalist who visits Ecotopia to report on its society and culture, initially skeptical but open-minded. His experiences and interactions with Ecotopians are crucial to the progression of the storyline.

An Ecotopian woman who engages with Weston during his investigations, providing him insight into Ecotopian customs and contributing to his personal transformation. She plays a significant role in his acclimation to Ecotopian life.

Weston’s girlfriend back in the United States, who mostly appears in his reflections and offers insight into his character and personal conflicts. Her presence helps highlight differences between his past and his experiences in Ecotopia.

An Ecotopian journalist and one of Weston’s first friends in Ecotopia, who helps him navigate the new society. Bert provides guidance and becomes a source of both support and tension for Weston.

The President of Ecotopia, who embodies the nation’s values and priorities. Her influence is felt throughout the story, and she plays a pivotal role in Weston’s journey of understanding Ecotopian culture.

Marissa’s brother, who initially appears as a minor character but influences the narrative’s climax. His actions reflect concerns about the future of Weston and Marissa's relationship.

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Pacific Northwest • 1990s

Publication Year

1975

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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