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.