Book Review: The Children of Men by P.D. James

The Children of Men by P.D. James
Rating: 4/5

I saw the movie years ago (well, I guess not that long ago) and was fascinated by the idea: what happens if humans stop reproducing….

I have to say this novel differs from the movie in drastic ways, yet I found them both quite enjoyable. By matter of fact, the book is better because you can make your own interpretation reading the passages, whereas the movie was acted well and had some great action scenes.

The novel follows Theo, a history professor as he describes his thoughts and feelings living in a world with mass infertility (the last baby was born 25 years ago). Theo at times appears to just be going through the motions of living (which I can only assume is common, when you know humanity will end in 80 years), until he meets a woman who solicits his help trying to change the government, run by his cousin.

To avoid spoilers I won't say much more but this novel was more of a cerebral view of this world, than an action packed adventure depicted in the film. If you've seen the movie first, no worries, it won't spoil you for the novel.