The Children of Men by P.D. James - 4 stars (Steeplechase, BWF)

[Joy D]

The Children of Men by P.D. James - 4* - My Review

Dystopian novel set in 2021, which at the time of publication (1992), was in the future. Due to an unnamed global disaster, no babies have been born since 1995. Facing extinction, the world has descended into a state of constant conflict. The storyline centers on Theo Faron, cousin of the Warden of England, a despot. Theo had previously been part of the few people in the Warden’s circle of power; however, he has resigned at opted to live a solitary life after the accidental death of his daughter and resulting divorce from his wife.

Society is crumbling. Criminals are sent to an unregulated prison on the Isle of Man. Older individuals are required to commit suicide, and “assisted” if they refuse. The younger population is subjected to intrusive testing procedures in the hope of finding fertile individuals. Many cults have formed, including those that regularly engage in vandalism and assault. Theo meets members of a dissident group who are interested in restoring democracy (or at least reducing oppression). They ask him to speak with the Warden. They are also harboring a pregnant woman, which they must keep secret.

I have read many dystopian novels, and the premise here is quite unusual. The first half of the book features descriptions of society and character development, particularly that of Theo. Toward the end it turns into a fast-paced thriller. I enjoyed the first half much more than the second (I’m not a big fan of thrillers). This novel is much different than other books I’ve read by P.D. James, which follow the typical “whodunnit” mystery pattern. I found this one much more creative and interesting.

PBT Steeplechase: tagged "survival" x11:
https://www.goodreads.com/work/shelve...

PBT May BWF: Extra C and tagged "crime" x17:
https://www.goodreads.com/work/shelve...

[Theresa]

I'm always surprised that this is a P.D James book. I do love her mysteries - they are not the usual fare and are wonderfully written. Her MC are always complex humans. In her later years she really wrote different books for her own pleasure, like Death Comes to Pemberley was an homage to her favorite author, Jane Austen, and her favorite book. It was by no means her usual fare.

[Joy D]

I am not an expert on her writing, but I definitely enjoyed this one as a good example of dystopia. I tend to avoid mysteries, so I've only read a couple others.