55 pages 1 hour read

John Wyndham

The Chrysalids

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1955

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Chrysalids by John Wyndham, first published in 1955, is a young-adult science fiction novel set in a post-apocalyptic world where society enforces strict genetic purity, exiling anyone with deviations. David Strorm, the protagonist, discovers his telepathic abilities and forms a secret group with other telepaths. As they face increasing danger from their community, they seek refuge and hope for acceptance in a distant, enlightened society. The novel portrays themes of conformity, fear, and the evolution of humanity. The novel includes descriptions of child abuse and death by suicide.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

John Wyndham’s The Chrysalids is often praised for its thought-provoking exploration of themes like intolerance and evolution. Readers appreciate its compelling narrative and strong character development. However, some critique the prose as dated and find the pacing uneven. Despite this, it remains a notable work in sci-fi literature, valued for its enduring moral questions.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Chrysalids?

A reader who enjoys The Chrysalids by John Wyndham is typically fascinated by post-apocalyptic settings, genetic mutations, and societal issues. This reader is likely to appreciate the tension and moral questions similar to those found in Brave New World by Aldous Huxley and The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood.

RecommendedReading Age

13-18years

Book Details

Genre

Science-Fiction / Dystopian Fiction

Fantasy

Allegory / Fable / Parable

Themes

Life/Time: Coming of Age

Society: Community

Society: War

Period

Cold War

Post-War Era

Topics

Education