The Death of Grass

By: John Christopher

Narrated by: William Gaminara

A viral strain has attacked rice crops in East Asia, causing massive famine; soon a mutation appears that infects the staple crops of West Asia and Europe, such as wheat and barley, threatening a famine engulfing the whole of the Old World, while Australasia and the Americas attempt to impose rigorous quarantine to exclude the virus.

Christopher's classic post-apocalyptic novel follows the struggles of architect John Custance and his family as they make their way across an England that is rapidly descending into anarchy, hoping to reach the safety of John's brother's farm in an isolated Westmorland valley. Along the way, they find they must sacrifice many of their morals in order to stay alive.

Here is an unusual and absorbing piece of science-fiction about the relentless transformation of civilisation when the balance of nature is upset.

©1956 Samuel Youd (P)2011 Audible Ltd

Critic reviews

"I admire The Death of Grass. It was published at roughly the same time as The Day Of The Triffids. In my judgement, it is by far the better book. It is a thrilling and sensible work." (Brian Aldiss)

"Gripping! Of all science fiction's apocalypses, this is one of the most haunting." ( Financial Times)

Holds Up Well (BrettD review)

As a young adult I thoroughly enjoyed The Tripod and The Sword of Spirits trilogies. In fact, I credit the Tripod trilogy heavily for inspiring me to enjoy reading as a hobby (vs forced to read for school). I also credit Sword of Spirits for introducing me to tragedy. I found Death of Grass on audible and decided to take a romp down memory lane. This book is so much more adult, grimmer, and heavier than the books I previously read from John Christopher. Despite that, it is a compelling story that holds up very well for it's age.

good Read

good storyline very good Read well Worth the time .makes you think about how dependent we are on grass.

Decent and unique story, excellent narration!

The story is interesting and oddly prophetic in a few ways, though I do feel like there could have been a few more chapters. Overall, decent book and excellent narration with believable voices and smooth, conversational reading.

If it was suggested, you must read it.

One of the best apocalypse fictions I've ever listened too. Will be reading it again. Puts even the film the day after to shame.

Travel into hunger

With a fast paced plot and a harrowing journey I flew through this listen, I found the action well done, I could have done with more world building, definitely worth the listen.