Books

First edition, first impression, of this science fiction classic. One of the most famous works by the "master of the cosy catastrophe", the book revolves around an aggressive species of carnivorous plant, capable of locomotion, that turns against humanity after most of the world's population has been blinded by a meteor shower. In the same year, the story was serialized in five parts in Collier's magazine. The first book published by the author under his name instead of a pseudonym, The Day of the Triffids was an immediate success. It was adapted into a movie starring Howard Keel in 1963 and a BBC television series in 1981. "Wyndham's importance in the rebirth of British science fiction after the Second World War was second to none. His very English style ('the Trollope of science fiction', according to one reviewer), coupled with the Wellsian gift for exploring emotive ideas, brought him international success and encouraged others to strike out in the same way. Writers as diverse as John Christopher, Charles Eric Maine, J. G. Ballard, and Christopher Priest are in his debt. Indeed, it can be claimed that, however hesitatingly, Wyndham established a flourishing school of writers" (ODNB). Octavo. Original green cloth, spine lettered in silver and with publisher's device. With dust jacket. Spine slightly cocked, couple of bumps at extremities, minor foxing to edges, internally clean; jacket rubbed at folds, couple of nicks to edges, front panel bright: a very good copy in like jacket.

"The Day of the Triffids" by John Wyndham, published in 1951, presents a dystopian world where humanity faces an unprecedented crisis. The narrative centers on Bill Masen, who wakes up in a hospital to find the world plunged into chaos after a dazzling meteor shower. People who watched the meteor shower have been rendered blind, and civilization rapidly collapses into disorder and panic. The story unfolds against the backdrop of triffids, bioengineered plants capable of mobility and deadly stings. Initially cultivated for their valuable oils, these plants become a significant threat after the blindness epidemic. With society in disarray, the triffids capitalize on the vulnerability of the sightless population, posing a lethal menace. Bill, having escaped the blindness due to an eye injury, must navigate this desolate landscape. He encounters a variety of characters, each dealing with the catastrophe in their unique way. Amidst the breakdown of law and order, he grapples with moral dilemmas, societal breakdown, and the struggle for survival. The novel delves into profound themes, reflecting on human nature, societal structures, and the fragility of civilization when faced with an unforeseen disaster. It prompts reflection on the consequences of unchecked scientific advancements and the resilience of the human spirit when confronted with adversity. As Bill traverses a desolate and perilous world, he seeks safety and a community untouched by the blindness epidemic. His journey is a poignant exploration of hope, resilience, and the complexities of human behavior amidst the breakdown of the familiar world order. "The Day of the Triffids" captivates readers with its compelling narrative, thought-provoking themes, and a gripping portrayal of a post-apocalyptic world where survival depends on adapting to unforeseen challenges and redefining the essence of humanity in an altered reality.