Apocalyptic Fiction At Its Finest. (Earth Abides - George R. Stewart)

Member Name: dyrms86

Product:	Earth Abides - George R. Stewart
Date:	19/09/09 (17 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Consistenty Compelling, A Total Page-Turner

Disadvantages: A Few Dated References But You Still Can't Put It Down.

If you've read any of my previous reviews, you will be aware of my frequent use of hyperbole. This book was not available for review until I suggested it to Dooyoo. Had it been here on day one, I would have reviewed it then and used about a year's worth of hyperbole in a single box of text.

Earth Abides is the only notable Science Fiction work by George R Stewart. First published in 1949, it is an early work of post-apocalyptic fiction and some would argue it has still to be beaten. Stephen King cites it as the inspiration for "The Stand" and knowing this fact, you will become aware of many similarites as you turn each page.

It is the story of Isherwood Williams, who manages to be both an everyman (a common story telling device - think Winston Smith in Orwell's "1984") and a fascinating character who learns much about himself in much the same way you learn about him throughout the book.

Isherwood is alone, deep in the woods when the unspecified apocalypse takes place. He is recovering from a snake bite and it is probable that his deep, fevered slumber helps him survive when so many others don't.

The world he wanders through, and spends his life trying to rebuild, is the world of 1949 but this does nothing to spoil the tale. There are a number of uncomfortable passages in the book - once concerning some "negros" (his words) and the way one survivor who joins his group of survivors is referred to as "stupid" and not allowed to bear children. I don't look upon these moments with great criticism as I wasn't even born in 1949 and for all I know, this is how things were - right or wrong.

Isherwood (or "Ish") wanders initially alone. He first meets Emma ("Em") and they are married, with little fuss and in a few short moments. It is understood between them that they just have to be together and that's the way it is.

The community slowly grows and together they face disease, rats, violent visitors and moral dilemmas. On the flip side, they find happiness in their new world and in their new friendships.

The final chapter takes place 52 years after the first and your 320 page commitment is rewarded with a satisfying and natural ending.

Before "The Survivors", "Jericho" and "I Am Legend" came "Earth Abides". This is the finest example of the genre you will find.

Outstanding.

Summary: Unreservedly Recommended.