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P. D. James

The Children of Men

P. D. JamesFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1992

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Book Brief

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P. D. James

The Children of Men

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1992
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 2020s

Publication Year

1992

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Children of Men by P. D. James is a dystopian novel set in 2021 after a mass infertility epidemic threatens human extinction. Oxford professor Theo Faron, whose cousin Xan Lyppiatt governs England, encounters Julian from the rebel group Five Fishes, who oppose Xan’s regime. Theo agrees to help the group, leading to dangerous conflicts and revelations. The story is narrated via Theo's diary entries and an omniscient narrator.

Dark

Mysterious

Melancholic

Suspenseful

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

3.9

52,487 ratings

61%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Children of Men by P. D. James is praised for its rich, evocative prose and thought-provoking, dystopian narrative, which explores themes of infertility, hope, and societal collapse. However, some critics find the pacing slow and the character development lacking. Overall, its compelling plot and imaginative world-building captivate most readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Children of Men?

Readers who enjoy thought-provoking dystopian fiction with deep philosophical questions will appreciate The Children of Men by P. D. James. Fans of George Orwell's 1984 or Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale will be drawn to its exploration of societal collapse and human resilience.

3.9

52,487 ratings

61%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 2020s

Publication Year

1992

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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