Childhood's End

By: Arthur C. Clarke

Narrated by: Eric Michael Summerer, Robert J. Sawyer - introduction

Length: 7 hrs and 43 mins

Publisher's summary

The Overlords appeared suddenly over every city - intellectually, technologically, and militarily superior to humankind. Benevolent, they made few demands: unify earth, eliminate poverty, and end 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 of their own.

As civilization approaches the crossroads, will the Overlords spell the end for humankind...or the beginning?

BONUS AUDIO: Includes an exclusive introduction by Hugo Award-winning author Robert J. Sawyer, who explains why this novel, written in the 1950s, is still relevant today.

©2001 Arthur C. Clarke (P)2008 Audible, Inc.

Critic reviews

"In Eric Summerer's capable hands, the plot of Childhood's End is smoothly presented and fully credible. He highlights the patient nature of the Overlords, which has caused humans to become ever more complacent. Summerer excels at delivering the aliens' quiet and intensely engaging dialogue with people. His nuanced performance creates a growing feeling of uneasiness in the listener as the Overlords' insatiable curiosity and watchfulness begin to suggest something less than benign at work." ( AudioFile)

Interesting story; sad ending

Would you recommend this book to a friend? Why or why not?

Only if they asked my opinion. It was just an okay read.

What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!)

It was okay, but it could have ended on a happier note.

Have you listened to any of Eric Michael Summerer and Robert J. Sawyer (Introduction) ’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

No.

If this book were a movie would you go see it?

No.

Standard Clarke, and one of his best

Like every other ACC book, character development is thin, and the focus of the book is the sense of wonder and of the awesome (in the original meaning of the word). This book happens to have more of an original twist, one that doesn't crop up much in science fiction, and one that encompasses vast ideas along the vein of the Hyperion Cantos and Vinge's Zones of Thought. The idea that there is that which will always remain beyond the realm of our understanding.

Summerer's narration is good, but not exceptional. There are a few inconsistencies where he seems to forget what species or what character he is speaking for. It seems minor, but when listening it creates the same feeling of "that's not right" as listening to a musical performance where the band loses the beat.

Disappointing for Clark

Would you recommend this book to a friend? Why or why not?

I would, but with the warning it strays from science fiction into fantasy, christian at that.

Would you ever listen to anything by Arthur C. Clarke again?

Absolutely, but with reservations. Rendezvous with Rama was excellent. This one, not so much.

Which character – as performed by Eric Michael Summerer and Robert J. Sawyer - introduction – was your favorite?

They were all fine.

Did Childhood's End inspire you to do anything?

no.

Any additional comments?

Not really, but beware if you are looking to avoid fantasy genre.

Robert's Review

This is a great book, the story is superv. The narrative is superv. You might have to read or listen to this book twice, to truly appreciate this book. It's a keeper.

great

largely it was a wonderful story there were some parts that were a little too slow for me in particular the party

Doesn't stand up to the test of time

I'm sure this book was considered great once. But in 2017 all I get are plot holes, nonsensical technology, and a bunch of unanswered questions.

Thought provoking, but leaves you wanting more

I liked this book, it was an easy read and definitely compelling. but I felt that the episodic nature of the storytelling left a feeling of something missing at the end. the individuals felt less like characters and more like conduits for the plot/explanations. Also, the Eurocentric treatment of the future and of certain descriptions (e.g. discussion of the n-word, ahistorical treatment of the white minority in south africa as exceptional, comparing one of the few non white characters to chocolate), as well as scattered sexism/gender essentialism were disheartening, but I guess I shouldn't have expected much better from a white male author of the time. still enjoyed the interesting history and future of humanity.

The story was so good- made up for slow pace

What made the experience of listening to Childhood's End the most enjoyable?

Just an interesting story. started fast and gripped you then slowed. was less enjoyable at that point but you HAD to find out the ending! luckily the book wasn't overly long or I might not have made it. overall I really liked it. Not my typical fare but I feel like I am that much more Geeky by having read it.

What about Eric Michael Summerer and Robert J. Sawyer (Introduction) ’s performance did you like?

Eric Michael Summerer is not my favorite reader but does a good job with classic sci-fi fare. would like a bit more animation- however may be the correct choice given the material.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

I would listen to the first half in one sitting but the second half was harder and although I went back to it- I wasn't ignoring my Wife and Kids to do so.

Recording is a mess!

It is impossible to choose a chapter. It will skip ahead 2 or 3 if you try to change it. I never come back to where I stopped.

Dissapointed.

What did you like best about Childhood's End? What did you like least?

It was easy to listen to but I kept waiting for something to happen and it never did. Interesting theory but I like a little excitement in the books I enjoy most.