51 pages • 1 hour read
Arthur C. ClarkeChildhood's End
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1953A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Childhood's End follows the arrival of the alien Overlords, who transform human society over 130 years, leading to the absorption of the world's children into a cosmic entity called the Overmind. Throughout this period, humanity experiences a utopian existence devoid of war and disease but eventually faces its ultimate transformation and end. The book contains references to child loss and suicide.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Arthur C. Clarke's Childhood's End marvels reviewers with its visionary storytelling and profound philosophical questions, evoking both awe and contemplation. Praised for its speculative scope and emotional depth, some critique its pacing and character development. Overall, it’s hailed as a thought-provoking classic in science fiction.
Who Should Read Childhood's End?
Readers who enjoy Childhood's End by Arthur C. Clarke are often fans of thought-provoking science fiction that explores profound themes like human evolution, alien contact, and utopia. They may also appreciate similar works such as Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 and Isaac Asimov’s Foundation.