Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel

Station Eleven is a post-apocalyptic science fiction novel that explores the collapse of modern civilization and what it means to be human.

The story alternates between scenes before and after a specific point of civilization’s collapse, following a Hollywood star, his would-be savior, and a nomadic group of actors roaming the scattered outposts of the Great Lakes region, risking everything for art and humanity.

The main themes of the book include the pursuit of artistic creation, the sacredness and beauty in everyday life, the role of faith in times of peril, and the resilience of humanity in the face of struggles. The book also explores the significance of memory, the impact of technology on society, and the consequences of our actions.

What I Liked

Beautiful, beautiful book. I did not want this to end. It’s one of my top 10 novels that I’ve ever read. I heard that they are making a mini-series about it, but I do not want to see it – the book is that good.

What I Did Not Like

Nothing! It’s incredible. NB though – it doesn’t hold back describing scenes of violence.

Also – the fact that this came out right before the global pandemic is nuts. Thankfully COVID-19 didn’t turn out like this book.

Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel

$8.98

In Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel, the story weaves through a post-apocalyptic world, highlighting the collapse of civilization and what it means to be human. The narrative shifts between pre- and post-collapse, centered on a Hollywood star, his would-be savior, and a troupe of actors who travel the Great Lakes, celebrating art and humanity. I found this book absolutely beautiful—it's easily one of my all-time favorites. There’s nothing I didn’t like, though be warned, it doesn’t shy away from violence. It’s wild how it was published just before the pandemic, but thankfully, our reality isn’t quite like the book’s!

Pros:

• Beautifully written and engaging story
• Strong themes of art, humanity, and resilience
• One of my top 10 novels ever

Cons:

• Nothing!
• Describes scenes of violence, which may not be for everyone

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05/13/2025 03:49 pm GMT