A review by lilis_land
The Hopkins Manuscript by R.C. Sherriff

emotional reflective sad tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

A tragic social commentary told through the memories of a self-conceited middle class poultry breeder living in the English countryside. 

Edgar Hopkins is at times aggravatingly prejudiced and at times tenderly endearing; he is the narrator of The Hopkins Manuscript and through his eyes you learn of the events that lead up to the demise of Europe, beginning with the moons impact with the earth and the events after his surprising survival 7 years after. 

R C Sherriff wrote The Hopkins Manuscript whilst the prospect of the Second World War loomed over Europe, just like the moon making its fatal descent. As you read you recognise the intended moral backbone of this novel and you feel Sherriff’s reflection on humanities tendency to be self-destructive whilst the true innocents “intent only upon rebuilding their shattered fortunes and living in quiet happiness” are left without a choice. 

Just as poignant today as it was back in 1939, this is a definite must read for those who love a moral science fiction classic.