Wyndham, John: 1903-1969

The Chrysalids, 1955 - Summary

  • Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the story follows a young boy named David Strorm, who lives in a community called Waknuk. This society adheres strictly to religious principles and has developed a fear and hatred of anything different or abnormal, particularly mutations.

    David soon discovers that he possesses a telepathic ability, which allows him to communicate with others who share this gift. However, this ability is considered a blasphemy in Waknuk, and anyone found to be a mutant is banished or worse.

    As David grows older, he becomes increasingly aware of the oppressive nature of his society and the hypocrisy of its leaders. He befriends other telepaths, including a girl named Sophie who has six toes, and together they form a small group of outcasts.

    When David and his friends are discovered, they are forced to flee Waknuk and embark on a dangerous journey to find a place where they can live freely without fear of persecution. Along the way, they encounter various challenges and dangers, including hostile mutants and the remnants of the old world.

    In the end, David and his friends discover a society of telepaths living in seclusion, where they are accepted for who they are. The novel ends on a hopeful note as David realizes that there are others like him in the world and that they can build a new society based on acceptance and understanding rather than fear and prejudice.

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