107 pages • 3 hours read
The Year of the Flood
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Book Brief
448
Novel • Fiction
Post-apocalyptic world • Future
2009
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood follows survivors Toby and Ren after a man-made plague, exploring their lives within the religious eco-group God's Gardeners before and after the pandemic through alternating narratives. Set in the dystopian pleeblands, the novel delves into their struggles for survival against the backdrop of violence, environmental degradation, and genetic engineering. The book includes instances of physical and sexual abuse.
Mysterious
Dark
Contemplative
Suspenseful
Gritty
Reviews & Readership
134,904 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Margaret Atwood's The Year of the Flood is praised for its imaginative dystopian world-building and strong environmental themes. Critics commend its intricate storytelling and compelling characters. However, some find its pacing uneven and its multiple perspectives occasionally confusing. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking and vividly realized tale.
Who Should Read The Year of the Flood ?
Readers who relish dystopian fiction like Atwood's own The Handmaid's Tale or Orwell's 1984 will enjoy The Year of the Flood. Fans of eco-criticism and speculative fiction in the vein of Neal Stephenson's Snow Crash will find its environmental themes and richly layered storytelling compelling.
134,904 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ren (Brenda)
Ren (Brenda)
The second protagonist and narrator, who moves to the God’s Gardeners with her mother and navigates her longing for love and acceptance within the group.
Adam One
Adam One
A charismatic leader of the God’s Gardeners, known for his peaceful teachings against the Corporations and his environmental stewardship.
Blanco
Blanco
A manager at SecretBurger and one of the novel's antagonists, known for his abusive behavior and pursuit of Toby.
Amanda
Amanda
Ren’s best friend and a resourceful member of the God’s Gardeners, who has a strong presence and artistic background.
Zeb
Zeb
A respected member of the Gardeners, known for his radical teachings and bridging connections with various factions.
Glenn (Crake)
Glenn (Crake)
A gifted scientist whose ambition to improve humanity plays a crucial role in the larger narrative events.
448
Novel • Fiction
Post-apocalyptic world • Future
2009
Adult
18+ years
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