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.

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.

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

- Shift is part of Hugh Howey's popular Silo series, which originated from a self-published short story.
- The book explores complex themes of power, control, and societal structure, building upon the dystopian world established in the series.
- Hugh Howey's Silo series, including Shift, gained significant attention online, contributing to its transition from self-publishing to a traditional publishing deal.

**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.

**Senator Paul Thurman**  
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.

**Anna Thurman**  
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.

**Mission Jones**  
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.

Hugh Howey

Adult

Novel

Silo

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Shift reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Shift | SuperSummary

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Overview

Get ready to explore Shift and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Shift Summary and Study Guide

Background

Shift Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “First Shift—Legacy”

Part 1, Prologue-Chapter 11

Shift Part 1, Prologue-Chapter 11 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 12-23

Shift Part 1, Chapters 12-23 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Second Shift—Order”

Part 2, Chapters 24-39

Shift Part 2, Chapters 24-39 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 40-57

Shift Part 2, Chapters 40-57 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Third Shift—Pact”

Part 3, Chapters 58-80

Shift Part 3, Chapters 58-80 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapter 81-Epilogue

Shift Part 3, Chapter 81-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Shift Character Analysis

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Themes

Shift Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Shift Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Shift Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Shift Essay Topics

Shift

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Shift?

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Book Details