If you are into aliens and extraterrestrial life, then the “Childhood End” by Arthur Clarke is a must read for you. Unlike what the Hollywood tries to portray in its action movie production, the book talks about a peaceful invasion by the race called Overlords.

The book is a relatively short story that comprises almost half the century of Earth history under the rule of Overlords. It also touches upon the utopian speculations about what the politics of the post World War II countries will bring the society. 

The plot starts with the US and the Soviet Union competing to enter the outer space. But the other world comes to them first. It took the aliens five years to conquer the world but nobody has ever seen the majestic and powerful Overlords. Ironically, when the Overlords do reveal their appearance, they look too much familiar to human imagination of devils. 

Nevertheless, the standards of life on Earth have been raised dramatically. Jan, George and Jean are the curious protagonists of the story who want to know more about their new partners. One of them even takes off on an illegal trip to the aliens’ home planet. When they marry, they discover that their children have unusual powers and dreams…

The author’s imagination is striking: the kind of future he describes is stunning, the dialogues between the characters are masterpieces, especially between the Humans and the Overlords. The story is full of adventures and breathtaking moments and author’s reflections about the future of human race where he sees right into the consumerism tendencies we experience today.

“Childhood’s End” is a classic literature among the science fiction genre. Today there are few pieces produced in such styles and this one has stood through the test of time. Tickle your established understanding of the world around you with new concepts and ideas!

Author: Cody Owens