38 pages 1 hour read

P. D. James

The Children of Men

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1992

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Before You Read

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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.

Reviews & Readership

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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.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Science-Fiction / Dystopian Fiction

Action / Adventure

British Literature

Topics

Climate Change

Depression / Suicide

Grief / Death

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Apathy

Emotions/Behavior: Hope

Emotions/Behavior: Loneliness