Books matching: dystopian future america
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Save:Tropic of Kansas by Christopher Brown is a dystopian political satire set in an alternate reality of a fractured USA. The story follows Sig, a survivor and escape artist, and Tania, a government investigator with a complicated past. As they navigate the lawless wasteland known as The Tropic of Kansas, they encounter warring factions, corrupt leaders, and a dystopian society plagued by political turmoil and environmental devastation. The narrative alternates between Sig and Tania, building tension and culminating in a cautionary tale with no neat and tidy happy ending, but a gripping and realistic portrayal of a bleak future.
Looking at the bright blue sky from the backseat of the armored truck, which was more like a cell than a seat, Sig could almost believe it was a warm day. But the shackles around his ankles were still...July 2017•481 pages - #2
Save:A provocative and gripping dystopian mystery that’s sharply divisive - packs in action and atmosphere but goes all-in on its politics. Worth trying if you enjoy challenging alternate futures and gritty detective tales, but be ready for some strong opinions along the way.
In "Flashback" by Dan Simmons, the story is set in a future America where the country is controlled by Japan, the primary export is military services, and a drug called Flashback allows people to relive past memories. The protagonist, Nick Bottom, is a former policeman investigating a murder while grappling with personal loss and addiction to the drug. The book explores themes of political ideologies, dystopian futures, and societal decline, interwoven with a murder mystery and elements of speculative fiction.
“Yeah,” said Nick. He thought, Fuck it. In for a penny, in for a pound. Nakamura wants to hire a detective. Show him you’re a detective. “You want me to find the person or persons who killed your son,...July 2011•615 pages - #3
Save:The Rule of One by Ashley and Lesley Saunders is a dystopian story set in a future America with a strict one-child policy. The plot follows twins, Ava and Mira, who are forced to live as one person to survive in a society that only allows one child per family. The book is written in first person, alternating between the perspectives of the twins, giving insight into their struggles, fears, and desires. The writing style is engaging, drawing readers in with its worldbuilding, polarizing characters, plot twists, and overall storytelling.
My mind wild, but my body immobile, I desperately will my limbs into action. In a blind panic I fight to break free, but my arms and legs remain bound and rigid, helpless to the hands that threaten to...October 2018•290 pages - #4
Save:A smart, funny, and genuinely original dystopian satire - strange, memorable, and sure to provoke thought. Not for the squeamish, but highly recommended for adventurous readers looking for something fresh.
American Neolithic by Terence Hawkins is a speculative and dystopian novel that seamlessly weaves together the stories of a middle-aged Manhattan lawyer named Raleigh and Blingbling, a Neanderthal accused of murder. As Raleigh fights to save his client, a captivating history of Blingbling's ancestry unfolds, showcasing a world where Homeland Cops and an Amended First Amendment have restricted civil liberties. The book expertly explores America's cultural and political madness, offering a funny, inventive, and highly readable take on society's assumptions about human evolution and societal norms.
The narrative alternates between the chatty and antic voice of Raleigh, reminiscent of Sam Lipsyte, and the eloquent and profound musings of Blingbling, who provides a heart-wrenching perspective on humanity's essence and rights. Through a unique blend of humor, suspense, and social commentary, American Neolithic delves into a near-future police state rife with fear, offering a sharp and morally propulsive antidote for contemporary times.
2013•200 pages A fast read with a chillingly believable premise, but if you’re hoping for memorable characters or deep literary craft, consider this more thought-provoking than thrilling. Worth picking up for the ideas, but not everyone will stick around for the storytelling.
'2030: The Real Story of What Happens to America' by Albert Brooks is a speculative fiction novel set in the near future, painting a realistic and somewhat bleak picture of America in 2030. The book explores themes of aging, healthcare, economic crisis, and societal resentment between the young and old generations. The plot revolves around a series of events, including a massive earthquake in Los Angeles, China's refusal to loan money to the United States, and the challenges faced by the government in maintaining social programs in the face of a growing national debt. Brooks' writing style is described as engaging, thought-provoking, and filled with dry humor, offering a unique perspective on potential future scenarios.
May 2011•384 pages- #6
Save:A smart, funny, and disturbing vision of the near future - equal parts satire and warning shot. Loved by some, loathed by others, but definitely a conversation starter.
In 'Super Sad True Love Story' by Gary Shteyngart, readers are taken on a journey through a dystopian future America where materialism, social media, and global financial crises shape the society. The novel follows the love story between an aging protagonist, Lenny, and a materialistic young woman, Eunice, as they navigate a world obsessed with technology and consumerism. The writing style incorporates a mix of diary entries, text messages, and chat logs to provide a glimpse into the characters' inner thoughts and relationships, offering a satirical commentary on modern life and relationships.
Others will die around me. They will be nullified. Nothing of their personality will remain. The light switch will be turned off. Their lives, their entirety, will be marked by glossy marble headstone...July 2010•394 pages - #7
Save:A moody, thoughtful dystopian classic that feels eerily relevant even decades later - best suited for readers who love complex characters and quiet, sharp explorations of power and conformity.
'Doomsday Morning' by C.L. Moore is a dystopian science fiction novel set in a totalitarian future United States ruled by Comus, a powerful communication network. The story follows Howard Rohan, a washed-up actor, who is caught in a web of political intrigue when he is tasked with performing a play that has deeper, hidden meanings. As Rohan navigates the complexities of a society controlled by propaganda and surveillance, he must decide whether to comply with the oppressive regime or join the rebels in a fight for freedom. The novel explores themes of state control, media manipulation, and personal agency in a society where loyalty and rebellion blur the lines.
AFTER A WHILE the lurching of the transport bus hit a rhythm I could adjust to. Every time I moved dust came up out of my denims, and even in the hot dark there was light enough to see the dirt from t...1957•230 pages - #8
Save:A disturbingly relevant, gut-punch of a novel - brilliant, haunting, and deeply human. Not an easy journey, but absolutely worth it if you want dystopian fiction that matters.
Parable of the Talents is a dystopian SciFi novel set in America in 2032, where society has collapsed due to climate change and economic crises. The story follows Lauren Olamina's efforts to establish her Earthseed belief system amidst chaos and oppression. The narrative delves into the clash between Earthseed and a right-wing Christian government, highlighting themes of survival, power struggles, and the struggle for a new belief system in a deteriorating society.
Darkness Gives shape to the light As light Shapes the darkness. Death Gives shape to life As life Shapes death. The universe And God Share this wholeness, Each Defining the other. God Gives shape to t... - #9
Save:A compulsively readable, twisty dystopian adventure that delivers on drama and suspense - even if it treads familiar ground. Ideal for fans craving an exciting new series to binge!
In the dystopian world of 'Pawn' by Aimee Carter, where society is divided by a ranking system based on standardized tests, Kitty Doe finds herself at a crossroads when she scores a III. Desperate to escape her fate, she accepts an offer that transforms her into Lila Hart, a member of the elite VII. As Kitty navigates this new identity, she uncovers dark secrets and becomes entangled in a dangerous game of deception and survival. The plot unfolds quickly, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with unexpected twists and a gripping storyline that explores themes of power, sacrifice, and the blurred lines between truth and lies.
The writing style of 'Pawn' is fast-paced and engaging, drawing readers into a society filled with conspiracies, betrayals, and high stakes. Through Kitty's perspective, the author delves into a world where appearances are deceiving, alliances are fragile, and the consequences of one's actions can be deadly. With elements of mystery, romance, and suspense, the book offers a compelling narrative that challenges perceptions of identity, loyalty, and the price of ambition.
Risking my life to steal an orange was a stupid thing to do, but today of all days, I didn’t care about the consequences. If I were lucky, the Shields would throw me to the ground and put a bullet in...November 2013•347 pages - #10
Save:Savage, surreal, and sneakily moving - CivilWarLand in Bad Decline is a masterclass in dark, satirical short fiction. Dive in if you’re ready for laughs and gut punches in equal measure.
CivilWarLand in Bad Decline by George Saunders is a collection of darkly humorous and satirical short stories and a novella set in quasi-dystopian American settings. The stories explore themes of critique of American society, hedonistic consumerism, guilt, redemption, and love, all while being laced with absurdity and humor. The writing style is described as inventive, absurdly funny, irreverent, and humane, with a touch of dark humor and macabre sense.
Whenever a potential big investor comes for the tour the first thing I do is take him out to the transplanted Erie Canal Lock. We’ve got a good ninety feet of actual Canal out there and a well-researc...1996•196 pages
