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45 pages 1 hour read

The Day of the Triffids

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1951

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Book Brief

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John Wyndham

The Day of the Triffids

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1951
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

London • Mid-20th century

Publication Year

1951

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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Super Short Summary

In John Wyndham's The Day of the Triffids, biologist Bill Masen wakes up in a nearly blind world after missing a comet event due to eye bandages. Sighted people, like Bill, navigate a dystopian London while dodging dangerous, mobile plants called triffids. He bonds with Josella Playton, joins a survivor group, faces societal collapse, and ultimately seeks safety against ever-increasing threats. Triggering topics include violence, mob behavior, and illness.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Dark

Unnerving

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.2

116,311 ratings

74%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Day of the Triffids by John Wyndham is highly praised for its compelling portrayal of a post-apocalyptic world and the unique threat posed by the triffids. Readers appreciate its suspenseful narrative and thought-provoking themes. However, some criticize the pacing and dated social commentary. Overall, it remains a classic in science fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Day of the Triffids?

Readers who enjoy science fiction with a post-apocalyptic theme will be captivated by John Wyndham's The Day of the Triffids. Fans of Richard Matheson's I Am Legend or H.G. Wells' The War of the Worlds will appreciate the novel's blend of suspense, survival, and social commentary. Ideal for those who enjoy thought-provoking and eerie narratives.

4.2

116,311 ratings

74%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

William “Bill” Masen

A British biologist with expertise in triffids, whose journey through a drastically changed England tests his values and desire for human connection after initially being spared from a widespread blindness.

A sighted woman who confronts the challenges of a new world order alongside Bill, recognized for her independence and radical thoughts on rebuilding society.

An adaptable and resourceful man who seeks to organize survivors following the disaster, eventually aiding in efforts to rebuild society and ensure the survival of the blind.

The leader of a group of survivors at University Building, focused on creating a sustainable community and utilizing mandatory procreation to ensure the future of humanity.

A sighted and religiously driven leader at Tynsham manor who enforces strict moral conduct within her community, even as it faces threats from disease and triffids.

A proponent of abandoning traditional societal norms, advocating for new, pragmatic approaches aimed at human survival within the University Building group.

Dennis and Mary Brent, along with Joyce Taylor, are blindsided by the comet but strive to survive and maintain life at the Shirning Farm with the help of Josella and Bill.

A young sighted girl whom Bill meets during his travels, who becomes part of his surrogate family and plays a key role in triffid defense tactics.

Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

London • Mid-20th century

Publication Year

1951

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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