Survival

by John Wyndham

In John Wyndham's 'Survival,' readers are taken on a thrilling journey through a post-apocalyptic world where a small group of survivors must navigate danger and uncertainty to stay alive. The book is characterized by its gripping narrative style and well-developed characters who grapple with moral dilemmas and the harsh realities of their new environment. Wyndham's exploration of themes such as human nature, resilience, and the consequences of societal collapse make 'Survival' a thought-provoking and engaging read that will leave readers pondering the fragility of civilization. Set against the backdrop of a world forever changed by catastrophe, the novel presents a cautionary tale that is as relevant today as when it was first published. John Wyndham's masterful storytelling and vivid imagination shine through in this captivating work, cementing his reputation as a pioneer of science fiction literature. Readers interested in dystopian fiction and exploring the depths of the human spirit will find 'Survival' to be a compelling and unforgettable read.

Genres: Science Fiction, Short Stories, Fiction

47 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 1, 1952

About the author

John Wyndham Parkes Lucas Beynon Harris was the son of a barrister. After trying a number of careers, including farming, law, commercial art and advertising, he started writing short stories in 1925. After serving in the civil Service and the Army during the war, he went back to writing. Adopting the name John Wyndham, he started writing a form of science fiction that he called 'logical fantasy'. As well as The Day of the Triffids, he wrote The Kraken Wakes, The Chrysalids, The Midwich Cuckoos (filmed as Village of the Damned) and The Seeds of Time.

Reviews

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

Survival (available online) is a dark science fiction story of survival. The ending is particularly creepy.

[Jason Arbuckle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 319 - John Wyndham - Survival

Just when I think Wyndham’s writings can’t get any darker…this short tale appears. A group of space travelers are heading out to explore…but things go wrong…and not only are they off course but they are running out of food…and there is no hope of rescue.

It is the classic bottle story where it almost all takes place inside the ship. With food almost all gone…they have to start thinking the inevitable…after all there were those that had already perished…

How far would a human being go to survive

Probably has the darkest ending if any book I have read…disturbingly brilliant

What is society ? What is life ? How low can the human race stoop…when hunger strikes…

[Plum · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gives me the shivers, but it is a fairly familiar scenario in fiction.

[Ivy-Mabel Fling · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to this story on CD and don't think that the contents warrant the cover they have been given here: the story is typical of John Wyndham's writing and, like his other work, is excellent and somewhat unusual. One reviewer remarked that the story-line is a typical sci-fi trope (lost in space?), which is certainly true but I found it fascinating and the end is original and somewhat hair-raising. Definitely something I would recommend.

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

That ending 😳 This is a great story, honestly it should be studied in schools. Perfect example of human nature, story structure, hopeless conditions, unreliable narrators, dirty politics and gender debate.

[Jan · Rating 3 out of 5]

The only one of John Wyndham's stories I didn't read as a teenager. A short story with a twist at the end.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

This short story was well written but not my kind of book.

[S · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dark. Very dark. The ending surprises.

[Meghan Hope · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read this book with my year 8s over a couple weeks and I really enjoyed it, sparked a great debate whether she should’ve been in the mix with the men or not

[Aimee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this. Short and (not so) sweet

[Hann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the best, bleak stories.

[Grace B · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5

[Angelo IG · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ωραίο και καλογραμμένο διήγημα. Μια όμορφη (;) ιστορία, που όμως βρήκα το τέλος της λίγο αναμενόμενο. Παρόλα αυτά είναι μια ιστορία που σου μένει. ⭐ 3.5

[Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

To what lengths will a woman go to protect her baby? Read this disturbing story to find out!

[Steven · Rating 4 out of 5]

Predictable ending but still a horrific and memorable story about the maternal survival instinct.

[Kathleen]

Haunting.