Books Like...
'The Things That Keep Us Here' by Carla Buckley follows the story of Ann and Peter, a couple struggling with a failing marriage while facing the outbreak of a lethal strain of bird flu. As the pandemic unfolds, the family must navigate rationing, isolation, and difficult decisions to survive in a world where infrastructures and society disintegrate. The tension in the book is palpable, portraying a post-apocalyptic scenario where individuals are forced to confront their vulnerabilities and make tough choices to protect their loved ones.
The narrative of the book is gripping and thought-provoking, delving into themes of disaster preparedness, family dynamics, and human resilience. Through a realistic and tangible portrayal of a possible pandemic, the author challenges readers to consider their own responses in similar situations and highlights the fragility of our routines and society in the face of a crisis.
If you liked The Things That Keep Us Here, here are the top 27 books to read next:
- #1
Save:'Dark Universe' by Daniel F. Galouye is a science fiction novel set in a post-apocalyptic world where people live underground in total darkness. The story follows the protagonist, Jared, as strange events start to unfold in their underground society. The author's writing style is described as classic 60s, with a focus on clever use of language to paint a vivid picture of a world devoid of light and the struggles faced by its inhabitants.
Ahead were no more needles of rock he could conveniently tap. The last echoes had told him that much. So he produced a pair of clickstones from his pouch and brought them together sharply in the hollo... - #2
Save:Cadillac knew the story off by heart. It was the two hundred and eighth time he had heard it, and it was not new to the sixty young children of the settlement that squatted in a half-circle before the...Hundreds of years after civilisation has been destroyed by nuclear war, the Earth is divided between the Trackers of the Amtrak Federation - a community living in vast subterranean cities - and the Mutes, who have evolved to withstand the radiation t
... - #3
Save:"Hooded Man" in the series "The Afterblight Chronicles" by Paul Kane is a post-apocalyptic retelling of the Robin Hood legend. Set in a world where 90% of the population has been wiped out, the story follows a reluctant hero named Robert who finds himself drawn into a battle against evil forces emerging in the wake of societal collapse. The plot is driven by themes of good versus evil, with a focus on action-packed scenes and the development of characters who must navigate a world where survival means embracing their true selves.
- #4
Save:In "Ariel" by Steven R. Boyett, readers are taken on a post-apocalyptic journey where modern technology ceases to function and magic takes its place. The story follows Pete, a young survivor who forms an unlikely bond with a talking unicorn named Ariel. Together, they embark on an adventure filled with mythical creatures, challenges, and a quest to confront a powerful enemy in New York City. The book combines elements of urban fantasy with coming-of-age themes, offering a unique and imaginative take on a changed world where the rules of reality have been altered.
The plot of "Ariel" unfolds in a world where chaos reigns, mythical beasts roam the land, and the remaining human population struggles to adapt to the new magical reality. Through Pete's journey with Ariel, readers are immersed in a tale of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery as they navigate through a landscape filled with danger, adventure, and unexpected twists. Boyett's writing style blends elements of fantasy, post-apocalyptic settings, and character-driven storytelling to create a captivating narrative that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the enduring bonds that can form in the face of adversity.
The water was cool and clear; the pollution had vanished years ago. I’m young, but I can remember the times before the Change when the filthy water would catch fire by itself. Now, though, I could lea... - #5
Save:'The Change' in the series 'Emberverse Universe' by S.M. Stirling follows the journey of Rudi and his companions across a post-apocalyptic America where technology has ceased to function. The book intricately weaves together the stories of different societies that have emerged post the Change, such as the Byzantine kingdom of Iowa and the modern Norse of Maine. It delves into themes of heroism, religious conflict, and political intrigue as Rudi and his allies navigate through a world filled with danger and mystique. The writing style of the book is described as vivid, engaging, and immersive, painting a detailed picture of a world transformed by an unexplained event.
Mathilda caught the twinkle in his own eye and stuck out her tongue at him. They laughed, a quiet, relieved sound; it was good to have nothing but a mystery troubling them, as opposed to homicidal str... - #6
Save:'Survivors' by Terry Nation is a post-apocalyptic novel that explores the aftermath of a global pandemic, where a mutated form of the Bubonic Plague spreads rapidly, bringing civilization to a halt. Set in Britain, the plot follows a handful of survivors as they come together to form a community in an attempt to resurrect agrarian life. The story focuses on the everyday struggles of becoming self-sufficient, dealing with armed conflicts, authoritarian feudalists, and the challenges of building a sustainable way of life in a world lacking societal safety nets. The writing style is described as competent but unadorned, with some annoying editing errors and a lack of depth in character development.
The gusting October wind pressed the door back against her as she pushed it open. She stepped out on to the wet paving and stared down across the lawns towards the swimming pool. The glass doors of th... - #7
Save:'The Last' by Hanna Jameson is a dystopian thriller set in a remote hotel in Switzerland after a nuclear war has devastated major cities worldwide. The story follows the survivors, a group of guests and staff who must learn to live together and somehow survive in the aftermath of the apocalypse. The main character, Jon Keller, an American historian, discovers the chaos unfolding and becomes determined to uncover the truth behind a murder that occurs within the isolated group. The narrative style is described as journal entries, documenting each day after the end of the world, creating a suspenseful and contemplative feel to the story.
The plot of 'The Last' intertwines elements of a locked room mystery, dystopian fiction, and a murder investigation, creating a gripping and thought-provoking narrative. The author, Hanna Jameson, takes risks with characterizations, introducing a less than perfect narrator and a spiky cast of residents in a post-apocalyptic setting, adding a layer of tension and intrigue to the story.
Dylan is one of the only members of staff who hasn’t fled. A tall black man in his late forties, with an infectious smile and cropped hair, he’s become our default leader after the breakdown. He knows... - #8
Save:In "Black Tide" by KC Jones, the story unfolds on a lonely stretch of dunes on the Oregon coast where two relatable characters, Beth and Mike, along with a dog named Jake, navigate a treacherous alien invasion. The plot is action-driven with a fresh premise, offering a satisfying and wildly imaginative tale of survival against bloodthirsty monsters and mysterious origins. The writing style creates suspenseful situations that escalate, keeping readers on edge as the characters face terrifying challenges while trying to uncover the truth behind the crisis.
- #9
Save:"The Crystal World" by J.G. Ballard is a poetic science fiction novel set in an African jungle where a mysterious force is causing the world to be covered in crystal. The book explores the extraordinary transformation of nature, with plants, animals, and humans being encased in a crystalline substance. Ballard's prose conveys the beauty and horror of the crystalline world, with vivid imagery and a focus on entropy and decay. The story follows somewhat passive protagonists navigating the surreal environment, with themes of hallucinogenic experiences and the allure of merging with the crystal world.
Above all, the darkness of the river was what impressed Dr. Sanders as he looked out for the first time across the open mouth of the Matarre estuary. After many delays, the small passenger steamer was... - #10
Save:Set in a bleak future, 'Lark Ascending' follows the journey of Lark and his loyal companion, Seamus, as they navigate a strange land in search of hope and sanctuary. The book portrays themes of love, survival, sacrifice, fear, uncertainty, failure, and success, all wrapped in a narrative that offers a glimmer of hope in a world driven to near oblivion. The story unfolds as Lark, the sole survivor of his family, faces perils, terrifying moments, and despair while also encountering beauty, kindness, and hope on his journey to find a safe haven in Ireland.
The writing style in 'Lark Ascending' is characterized by simplicity, precision, and sincerity, evoking emotions of pain, beauty, and inspiration in readers. Silas House weaves a tale that resonates with themes of resilience, companionship, and the indomitable human spirit, leaving readers captivated by the poignant narrative that balances dark moments with tender ones, ultimately offering a message of hope amidst adversity.
