John Wyndham

John Wyndham was an English science fiction writer best known for his works such as 'The Day of the Triffids' and 'The Midwich Cuckoos'. He often explored themes of catastrophe and human resilience in his novels.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Day of the Triffids

    In this post-apocalyptic novel, the majority of the world's population is blinded by a comet shower, leaving society vulnerable to the Triffids - venomous, mobile plants that were previously farmed for their oil. The protagonist, who retains his sight after being hospitalized during the comet shower, must navigate this new world, dealing with the Triffids and the desperate remnants of humanity. The novel explores themes of survival, adaptation, and the inherent fragility of civilization.

    The 917th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  2. 2. The Midwich Cuckoos

    In a small English village, an inexplicable event causes everyone within its boundaries to fall unconscious for an entire day. When they awaken, it's discovered that all women of childbearing age are pregnant, and the children born from these pregnancies are eerily identical with golden eyes and telepathic abilities. As these children grow, their collective power increases, causing fear and tension among the villagers. The narrative explores themes of fear of the unknown, societal norms, and the power dynamics between adults and children.

    The 1071st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  3. 3. The Chrysalids

    "The Chrysalids" is a captivating science fiction novel set in a post-apocalyptic world where the inhabitants of a small community strictly adhere to a religious doctrine that condemns any form of mutation or deviation. The story follows a young boy named David, who possesses telepathic abilities that he must conceal to avoid persecution. As David grows older, he becomes increasingly aware of the intolerance and hypocrisy of his society, leading him to question the rigid beliefs he has been raised with and ultimately embark on a dangerous journey to find acceptance and understanding.

    The 2667th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  4. 4. Chocky

    The story revolves around a young boy named Matthew who begins to exhibit unusual behavior and claims to be communicating with an invisible entity named Chocky. As his parents grow concerned about his mental health, it becomes apparent that Chocky is an extraterrestrial intelligence exploring Earth through Matthew. The novel explores themes of communication, understanding, and the challenges of accepting the unknown, as Matthew's family grapples with the implications of Chocky's presence and the broader questions it raises about humanity's place in the universe.

  5. 5. The Seeds Of Time

    This collection of short stories delves into the realms of science fiction, exploring themes of time travel, alien encounters, and the complexities of human nature. Each tale presents a unique scenario, from the challenges of adapting to life on distant planets to the ethical dilemmas posed by advanced technology. The narratives are woven with Wyndham's characteristic wit and insight, offering readers a thought-provoking glimpse into possible futures and the enduring resilience of the human spirit.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  6. 6. Consider Her Ways And Others

    Set in a dystopian future, the narrative unfolds through a series of interconnected stories that explore the complexities of human nature and societal constructs. The central tale follows a woman who awakens in a world where men no longer exist, and society is structured around a rigid caste system of women. As she navigates this unfamiliar world, she grapples with questions of identity, freedom, and the consequences of a society devoid of gender balance. The collection delves into themes of power, control, and the human condition, challenging readers to reflect on the implications of societal evolution.

  7. 7. Trouble With Lichen

    In a world where the discovery of a rare lichen promises to extend human life significantly, two scientists find themselves at odds over the implications of such a breakthrough. While one envisions a future where the lichen's benefits are shared with all, the other sees it as a means to wield power and influence. As the potential for immortality stirs societal upheaval, ethical dilemmas, and personal conflicts, the narrative explores themes of ambition, morality, and the profound impact of scientific advancements on human civilization.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  8. 8. The Kraken Wakes

    In this gripping science fiction tale, humanity faces an unprecedented threat from the depths of the ocean as mysterious extraterrestrial entities begin to rise from the sea, causing catastrophic events around the globe. As the world grapples with the escalating crisis, a journalist couple, Mike and Phyllis Watson, find themselves at the forefront of uncovering the truth behind these enigmatic invaders. The narrative explores themes of human resilience, environmental change, and the struggle for survival in the face of an unknown and seemingly unstoppable force. With tension mounting and society on the brink of collapse, the story delves into the complexities of human nature and the desperate measures taken to combat an alien menace.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  9. 9. Web

    Purchase from Bookshop.org