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woodarddvm's review against another edition
5.0
Still one of my favorites in regard to story line. I am enjoying the apocalyptic theme lately (I wonder why?!?) Definitely feels it age though.
rschmidt7's review against another edition
5.0
I don't usually like post-apocalyptic science fiction, but this book about the survivors of a nuclear war is definitely a must-read, because it is so believable, so well-written and true to life.
The stark depiction of nuclear war in the first few chapters was shocking and will stay with you long after you close the book. The characters were likeable and believable, and Frank really makes you care about them.
I also loved the ending. Realistically scary depiction of nuclear war, but never bleak. The theme of the book is that with hope, humanity can survive anything.
The stark depiction of nuclear war in the first few chapters was shocking and will stay with you long after you close the book. The characters were likeable and believable, and Frank really makes you care about them.
I also loved the ending. Realistically scary depiction of nuclear war, but never bleak. The theme of the book is that with hope, humanity can survive anything.
alexspam933's review against another edition
4.0
One of the best works of apocalyptic fiction of the Cold War era!
amandameowly's review against another edition
5.0
Pat Frank's Alas, Babylon explores what it would have been like if the Cold War ended in nuclear disaster in Florida. As a native Floridian, this novel was especially intriguing and really hit home for me (excuse the pun). Frank creates real-world characters we can relate to and presents issues that one would never think to consider - such as running out of salt. The post-apocalyptic story is nail-biting, endearing, and extremely enjoyable to read. After reading this novel, I was inspired to enjoy the smaller things in life we all take for granted. Frank ends the story with a line that inspires hope.
rizzfitz's review against another edition
5.0
This I can't even review because it's so closely up my alley. Do your favorite things to think about include apocalypse, communes, and macgyver type stuff, etc? If so, come on in. Instant favorite.
tjr_ohio's review against another edition
4.0
I enjoyed the insight and perspective the author offers on the consequences of nuclear war and the many challenges that society has solved for us. The challenges faced were highly plausible, and I'm impressed that an author was expressing these concerns at that time. The book was willing to delve into the horror, and that impressed me.
I was not thrilled with the writing style. There were several attempts at humor (especially around gender conflict) that fell flat for me. Some of the storylines were a bit too much like a public lecture rather than an integrated story element. I was not surprised to read that the author had worked much of his life as a journalist.
I was not thrilled with the writing style. There were several attempts at humor (especially around gender conflict) that fell flat for me. Some of the storylines were a bit too much like a public lecture rather than an integrated story element. I was not surprised to read that the author had worked much of his life as a journalist.
wordyanchorite's review against another edition
5.0
I had to change my expectations of this book. It isn't Dr. Strangelove, and it isn't an adventure. It isn't a paperback thriller.
What it is is literature, that slow, beautiful kind of literature that examines big themes, merits close and repeated reading, and isn't going to be a top pick for readers who primarily read for plots.
I love it, in other words, but even if I assigned whole-class reading, I'd save this one for a book group of my more contemplative students.
What it is is literature, that slow, beautiful kind of literature that examines big themes, merits close and repeated reading, and isn't going to be a top pick for readers who primarily read for plots.
I love it, in other words, but even if I assigned whole-class reading, I'd save this one for a book group of my more contemplative students.
bibliobethica's review against another edition
4.0
It's hard to believe this was published in 1959. The threat of a nuclear war is still lingering, and how we'd survive would be similar to what Randy and his neighbors had to do. My favorite scene was when the library was flourishing after years of decline. Libraries always evolve into what the community needs.