The Overlords appeared suddenly over every city–intellectually, technologically and militarily superior to humankind. The Overlords brought prosperity and peace to Earth, but they also imposed a single government- the “Centre”–that was dedicated to eliminating poverty and war. With little rebellion, humankind agreed, and a golden age began.
As humanity believes in the Overlords, Earth is transformed into a utopia. They ask for little-the right to live in peace and be left alone to use their superior intellect. Yet, despite their advanced technology, the Overlords fail to detect one final danger: a lone man who hides on earth’s surface and has sworn to destroy them.
In the year 2131, humankind is united under the benevolent Overlords. But when a young boy fails to fit in, his brother sees this as a chance to escape their oppressive life. He seeks out the ways of technology, only to see that humans have yet to evolve past such base desires as domination and greed. It takes high adventure, courage and sacrifice before he can find what he’s lost.
Childhood’s End was Arthur C. Clarke’s first science-fiction novel, published in 1953 and prophetic of the 1984 film The Terminator. It follows the story of a man who confronts an alien race called the Overlords who have come to Earth to help usher in an era of peace and prosperity for its seven billion inhabitants. Still, he soon realizes that they are not what they appear to be. A true classic from one of the greats of science fiction literature, Childhood’s End is both timeless and timely–a compelling tale that resonates today.
About Childhood’s End Book
The Overlords appeared suddenly over every city–intellectually, technologically, and militarily superior to humankind. Benevolent, they made a few demands: unify the earth, eliminate poverty, and end the war. With little rebellion, humankind agreed, and a golden age began.
But at what cost? With the advent of peace, man ceases to strive for creative greatness, and a malaise settles over the human race. To those who resist, it becomes evident that the Overlords have an agenda. As civilization approaches the crossroads, will the Overlords spell the end for humankind . . . or the beginning?
