logo

39 pages 1 hour read

One Second After

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
William Forstchen

One Second After

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

528

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

North Carolina • 2000s

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

860L

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

One Second After by William Forstchen depicts college professor John Matherson's struggle to protect his family and town of Black Mountain, NC, following an EMP attack that causes total technological failure, revealing the fragility of civilization and the dangers of overreliance on technology. The novel includes themes of survival, loss, and societal collapse. The book includes topics relating to the death of individuals, including a family member, and significant community trauma.

Dark

Suspenseful

Challenging

Emotional

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.2

96,981 ratings

77%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

One Second After by William Forstchen elicits a strong emotional response, praised for its gripping and realistic portrayal of a post-apocalyptic scenario. Critics commend the detailed narrative and character development. However, some find the writing style simplistic and the plot occasionally melodramatic. Overall, it's noted as a thought-provoking and engaging read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read One Second After?

Readers who enjoy One Second After by William Forstchen are likely fans of post-apocalyptic fiction and dystopian narratives. They would appreciate the blend of survival tactics and emotional depth found in Forstchen's writing, similar to works like Cormac McCarthy's The Road and Stephen King's The Stand.

4.2

96,981 ratings

77%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

John Matherson

A middle-aged widower and history professor living in Black Mountain, North Carolina, who, after an EMP event, leverages his military background to advise and defend the town.

A tall, slender nurse with blond hair who is stranded in Black Mountain post-EMP and becomes vital in providing medical expertise and support to the community.

The head of campus security at Montreat College, a former marine, who becomes crucial in maintaining peace and assisting John during the town's crisis.

John's mother-in-law, a resilient older woman who supports the family through the challenges that arise after the EMP event.

John's 16-year-old daughter, who navigates personal challenges amidst the broader community struggles resulting from the EMP disaster.

John's 12-year-old daughter, who faces serious health challenges exacerbated by the EMP situation.

The director of public safety in Black Mountain who assumes leadership roles during the crisis, prioritizing the wellbeing of the community.

The town mayor who effectively collaborates with other leaders to manage the town's affairs after the EMP impact.

The town's general practitioner who plays a critical role in health management and advice during the post-EMP health crisis.

The president of Montreat College who works closely with John and Washington to prepare the college community for the challenges following the EMP event.

Book Details
Pages

528

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

North Carolina • 2000s

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

860L

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.