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45 pages 1 hour read

The Cabin at the End of the World

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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Paul Tremblay

The Cabin at the End of the World

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Remote cabin, New Hampshire • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Cabin at the End of the World by Paul Tremblay follows seven-year-old Wen and her parents, Andrew and Eric, whose vacation in a remote New Hampshire cabin is disrupted by four strangers who claim an apocalypse can only be prevented if the family makes a sacrificial choice. The story, told from multiple viewpoints, explores themes of faith, doubt, and the impact of violence. The material includes depictions of death by suicide, self-harm, and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals.

Suspenseful

Unnerving

Dark

Mysterious

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

3.5

90,412 ratings

46%

Loved it

33%

Mixed feelings

20%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Paul Tremblay’s The Cabin at the End of the World captures readers with its gripping tension and thought-provoking storyline. Reviewers praised its psychological depth and emotional intensity. Conversely, some found the ambiguity and unresolved threads frustrating. Overall, it's lauded for its horror elements and character development but may not satisfy those seeking clear resolutions.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Cabin at the End of the World?

Readers who relish psychological horror with intense suspense will enjoy Paul Tremblay’s The Cabin at the End of the World. Fans of Stephen King’s Misery and Shirley Jackson's The Haunting of Hill House will appreciate its tense atmosphere and complex characters. This novel is perfect for those who enjoy thought-provoking thrillers.

3.5

90,412 ratings

46%

Loved it

33%

Mixed feelings

20%

Not a fan

Character List

Wen

Seven-year-old Wen is the adopted daughter of Eric and Andrew, characterized by her independence and perceptive nature. She’s self-conscious about her facial scar, which reminds her of her surgeries for a cleft palate and her unique identity as a Chinese girl adopted by American parents.

Andrew is one of Wen’s fathers and a key protagonist, formerly an English professor who takes a rational approach to the events at the cabin. He’s experienced societal prejudice as a gay man and once survived an antigay assault, which deeply influences his perceptions and actions.

Eric, Andrew’s husband and Wen’s co-parent, is depicted as overcautious and deeply protective. More inclined toward spirituality, he holds a strong moral stance and balances Andrew’s rationalism with empathy and faith.

Leonard is the leader of the group of intruders, characterized by his imposing physical presence and calm demeanor. He claims to work with children and initially forms a bond with Wen, contrasting with the violent implications of his group’s mission.

Redmond, known for his red shirt, is part of the intruder group and is unapologetically aggressive. Before teaming with the group, he has a criminal background and stands apart due to his confrontational nature.

Adriane works as a cook and is an intruder who shows nervous energy and aggression during the course of events. Her composure erodes as she faces the potential outcomes of their actions.

Sabrina, a nurse by profession, is one of the intruders who struggles with her conscience throughout the ordeal. Her friendly demeanor contrasts with her apocalyptic beliefs, revealing internal conflict.

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Remote cabin, New Hampshire • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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