When the Tripods Came : Book Review

"When the Tripods Came" by John Christopher serves as a captivating prequel to his beloved "Tripods" trilogy. This post-apocalyptic novel delves into the arrival and subsequent domination of the alien Tripods over humanity. The story revolves around Laurie, a young boy, and his family, as they witness the rise of the Tripods' rule and the resulting societal changes. Throughout the narrative, Laurie becomes increasingly aware of the sinister nature of the Tripods and their plans for humanity.

Christopher's writing style is engaging and descriptive, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the vividly crafted world he has created. The plot unravels at a steady pace, ensuring that readers remain captivated from beginning to end. The characters are well-developed, and Laurie's transformation from a curious and innocent child to a critical thinker who questions authority and fights for freedom is truly captivating.

One of the notable aspects of this book is its exploration of themes surrounding control and conformity. The Tripods symbolize a totalitarian regime, and Christopher expertly depicts the consequences of living in a society where individuality is oppressed. This theme strongly resonates with readers, as it prompts reflection on the importance of freedom and the dangers of blind obedience.

Furthermore, "When the Tripods Came" shines as both a standalone novel and as a prequel to the "Tripods" trilogy. Readers familiar with the original series will appreciate the book's setting and the connections it establishes with subsequent events. However, even for newcomers to Christopher's work, this novel stands tall as a thrilling and thought-provoking piece of science fiction.

In conclusion, "When the Tripods Came" delivers a captivating and masterfully written prequel that enriches the world of John Christopher's "Tripods" series. With its engaging storyline, well-developed characters, and exploration of significant themes, it is a must-read for fans of dystopian and science fiction literature.

What are readers saying?

When the Tripods Came by John Christopher serves as a prequel to his renowned The Tripods trilogy and has received a range of reviews. The story unfolds in a post-apocalyptic world where nefarious alien tripod creatures have enslaved humanity. Let's delve into a summary of these reviews.

1. Positive Reviews: Many readers expressed their appreciation for the book's exploration of the origins and rise of the Tripods, finding John Christopher's writing style engaging and easy to follow. The story's pacing was praised for its ability to captivate readers from start to finish. Existing fans of the original trilogy found this prequel to be a satisfying addition, as it shed light on unanswered questions regarding the Tripods.

2. Negative Reviews: Some readers felt that the book lacked the depth and complexity of the original trilogy. They mentioned underdeveloped characters and a lack of emotional connection compared to the other books. The plot was criticized for being predictable and lacking surprises. These readers believed that When the Tripods Came didn't contribute significantly to the overall story, rendering it unnecessary for fans of the series.

3. World-building: Many reviewers appreciated the book's ability to create a believable and dystopian future, where Tripods subjugate humanity. John Christopher received praise for his vivid and immersive descriptions of the alien creatures and their technology. This aspect allowed the world to come alive within the minds of readers.

4. Writing Style: A common sentiment among the reviews was John Christopher's straightforward and accessible writing style. Readers enjoyed being engrossed in the story, easily understanding the unfolding events. The prose was described as clear and concise, making it suitable for both young adult and adult readers.

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