Summary
Jeanne DuPrau's The City of Ember is a captivating post-apocalyptic novel that has enthralled readers since its publication in 2003. Set in an underground city facing imminent darkness, this award-winning book has sold over 4 million copies worldwide, cementing its place as a modern-day classic in children's literature.
The novel's unique premise and richly detailed world have garnered critical acclaim, earning it numerous accolades including the ALA Notable Children's Book award and the Mark Twain Award. DuPrau's electric debut has been praised for its realistic portrayal of a subterranean society and its compelling protagonists, Lina and Doon, whose courage and determination resonate with readers of all ages.
In 2008, The City of Ember was adapted into a feature film by Walden Media and Playtone, starring Saoirse Ronan and Harry Treadaway. While the movie received mixed reviews, it introduced the story to a broader audience and showcased the visual potential of DuPrau's intricate underground world. The book's enduring popularity has also spawned a graphic novel adaptation and three sequel novels, expanding the Ember universe for eager fans.
Plot
The City of Ember, set in a post-apocalyptic underground city, follows the story of two young protagonists, Lina Mayfleet and Doon Harrow. The city, built as a refuge for humanity, has been sustained by its great lamps for over 200 years. However, as the novel begins, Ember faces a dire crisis: its food supplies are dwindling, and the lights that illuminate the city are beginning to flicker and fail.
On Assignment Day, Lina and Doon swap their assigned jobs, with Lina becoming a messenger and Doon working in the Pipeworks. As they settle into their new roles, they stumble upon fragments of an ancient message left by the city's founders, known as the Builders. Convinced that this document holds the key to saving Ember, the two friends embark on a race against time to decipher its contents and uncover the city's secrets.
Their investigation leads them to discover corruption within Ember's leadership, including the mayor's theft of vital supplies. When they attempt to expose this wrongdoing, Lina and Doon find themselves branded as criminals. Forced to flee, they continue their quest to unravel the mystery of the ancient instructions, which they believe will guide them to a way out of the dying city.
In a thrilling climax, Lina, Doon, and Lina's young sister Poppy manage to escape Ember through a hidden river passage. Their perilous journey takes them to the surface world, where they finally understand the true nature of their underground home. Determined to save their fellow citizens, they send a message back to Ember, revealing the path to the outside world and offering hope for the city's inhabitants to find a new future beyond the failing lights of their subterranean existence.
Themes
Importance of hope and perseverance
Consequences of corruption and greed
Value of curiosity and problem-solving
Power of knowledge and education
Struggle against environmental decay
Coming of age and taking responsibility
Importance of community and cooperation
Setting
The City of Ember is set in a post-apocalyptic future, centuries after an unspecified global disaster known as “the Disaster.” The story takes place in an underground city called Ember, which was constructed as a refuge for humanity. This subterranean settlement was designed to sustain its inhabitants for 200 years before they were meant to return to the surface.
Ember is entirely self-contained, with no knowledge or connection to the outside world. The city is illuminated by artificial lights powered by a hydroelectric generator, as natural light is nonexistent in this underground environment. The urban layout includes residential areas, workplaces, and storerooms that were initially stocked with supplies to last for two centuries.
Characters
Lina Mayfleet: A curious and determined 12-year-old girl who becomes a messenger in Ember. She discovers fragments of an ancient document and works to decipher its meaning. Lina is brave, resourceful, and deeply cares for her family and friends. Her optimism and persistence drive much of the story's action.
Doon Harrow: Lina's classmate and friend who takes a job in the Pipeworks. He is intelligent, observant, and passionate about finding a way to fix Ember's failing generator. Doon's practical skills and knowledge complement Lina's intuition and energy. Together, they uncover the truth about their city and lead the way to escape.
Poppy: Lina's baby sister who inadvertently chews up part of the important document. She accompanies Lina and Doon on their journey out of Ember.
Mayor Cole: The corrupt leader of Ember who hoards supplies for himself. He attempts to silence Lina and Doon when they discover his misdeeds.
Clary: A kind-hearted greenhouse worker who helps Lina and Doon interpret the mysterious document. She provides support and guidance to the young protagonists.
Mrs. Murdo: A caring and responsible neighbor who takes in Lina and Poppy after their grandmother dies.
Quick facts
The City of Ember was Jeanne DuPrau's debut novel, published in 2003.
The book has sold over 4 million copies worldwide.
It is the first of four books in the Books of Ember series.
The novel was adapted into a film in 2008, starring Saoirse Ronan and Harry Treadaway.
A graphic novel adaptation was released in 2012, illustrated by Niklas Asker.
The story is set approximately 241 years after the underground city of Ember was established.
The book has won several awards, including the Mark Twain Award and the William Allen White Children's Book Award.
The novel explores themes of corruption, resourcefulness, and the power of knowledge.
DuPrau was inspired to write the story after experiencing a power outage during a storm.
The book has been translated into over 20 languages.
About the Author
Jeanne DuPrau, born in 1944 in San Francisco, California, is an American novelist best known for her young adult science fiction series, The Books of Ember. She currently resides in Menlo Park, California, where she continues to write and advocate for environmental causes.
DuPrau's most famous work, The City of Ember, was published in 2003 and became a New York Times bestseller. This success led to three sequels, completing The Books of Ember series. Her writing often explores themes of sustainability, community, and the challenges faced by young people in uncertain times.
In addition to her fiction work, DuPrau has written several nonfiction books on diverse topics such as adoption, cellular biology, and colonial American history. Her commitment to environmental issues is reflected not only in her writing but also in her personal life—she drives a hybrid car, demonstrating her dedication to reducing carbon emissions.
DuPrau's impact extends beyond the page. In 2008, The City of Ember was adapted into a feature film starring Bill Murray and Saoirse Ronan. This adaptation brought her vision to an even wider audience, solidifying her place as a significant voice in young adult literature.
