The Scarlet Plague

By Jack London

Book Overview

An old man walks along deserted railway tracks, long since unused and overgrown; beside him a young, feral boy helps him along. It has been 60 years since the great Red Death wiped out mankind, and the handful of survivors from all walks of life have established their own civilization and their own hierarchy in a savage world. Art, science, and all learning has been lost, and the young descendants of the healthy know nothing of the world that was--nothing but myths and make-believe. The old man is the only one who can convey the wonders of that bygone age, and the horrors of the plague that brought about its end. What future lies in store for the remnants of mankind can only be surmised--their ignorance, barbarity, and ruthlessness the only hopes they have. This cataclysmic tale remains a terrifying prophecy of the perils of globalization, which are all too pertinent today.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1843911752
• ISBN13: 9781843911753
• Release Date: October 2008
• Publisher: Hesperus Press
• Length: 72 Pages
• Weight: 1.10 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 4.8" x 7.4"

Customer Reviews

Kindle printed

After receiving the book, I realized the copy that I received was just a printed version of the kindle copy of the book. Same story just slightly dissatisfied with it not being a legit paperback copy of the book.

One of the first PA novels

One of the first in the genre. As a result it lacks the slickness (and cliches) that we have come to expect from stories such as this. But it was one of the first and notable for that if nothing else. Also the story has a different perspective to it. For while Jack London was an educated man and a socialist he was also a product of his time. He had viewpoints and prejudices that in 2011 seem boorish and small minded. However in his time London was considered to be a an enlightened man. Funny what changes will occur over a century. If you start this book expecting a modern story about a post-apocalyptic world you will be in for a shock. However, if you can look past your own modern sensibilities (and prejudices) then you will be in for an interesting read. If for nothing else read this story for its historical importance.