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63 pages 2 hours read

Shift

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2013

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Book Brief

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Hugh Howey

Shift

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2013
Book Details
Pages

570

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Underground Silo • Distant Future

Publication Year

2013

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Shift by Hugh Howey delves into the backstory of Donald Keene, the architect behind the silos, exploring his involvement in the creation of World Order Operation Fifty (WOOL) while addressing themes of memory, survival, and deception. The novel intertwines his journey with Juliette's discoveries and the evolving dystopian world, setting the stage for the next installment. Shift contains violence and mentions of death by suicide and attempted suicide.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Dark

Challenging

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.3

138,308 ratings

81%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Reviews for Hugh Howey’s Shift highlight a compelling continuation of his dystopian saga with strong world-building and intricate plot twists. While praised for its deep character development and immersive storytelling, some critics note the pacing can be uneven and less engaging than its predecessor, Wool. Readers find it a satisfying but occasionally slow middle installment.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Shift?

Shift by Hugh Howey will captivate readers who enjoy dystopian science fiction with intricate world-building and suspenseful narratives. Fans of The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and Divergent by Veronica Roth will appreciate the novel's exploration of society and human resilience in a post-apocalyptic world.

4.3

138,308 ratings

81%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Donald Keene/Troy

A congressperson from Georgia who becomes involved in a major project in Washington, DC, leading to a journey of self-discovery and complex identity-related revelations. His character navigates themes of memory, responsibility, and moral dilemmas.

A skilled politician involved in a significant and secretive project; his actions and influence drive much of the narrative conflict. As a seasoned senator, he embodies manipulation and strategic thinking in the political sphere.

Donald’s former college sweetheart and a technical expert involved in a pivotal project, balancing her professional duties and personal motivations. Her complex relationship with Donald adds personal stakes to the unfolding events.

A teenager growing up in a regulated environment, grappling with societal norms and his own inherited shame. His story highlights themes of indoctrination and societal control within the constraints of his environment.

Book Details
Pages

570

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Underground Silo • Distant Future

Publication Year

2013

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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