Thought provoking.

Although set after the downfall of society as we know it, this is no way a fantasy novel.
I guess we all have an idea in our heads, or have flirted with the concept of, what our lives might be like after the apocalypse. In this imagined world there is not even an apocalypse, there is a realistic spiral downwards of the American infrastructure. This book then imagines that concept with less dramatic consequences than we are used to seeing in films set in future times. I can imagine the world James Howard Kunstler has created, and not ALL of it is unappealing.
The only negative I can think of is the ending, it kind of just stops, though it does leave the reader to imagine their own 'what happens next'.
Off to buy the second book now. Sad to see the rest of the series after that isn't on Audio.

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A gem in the post-apocalypse genre

A very realistic portrayal of the post apocalypse, modernity has mostly vanished and there is a return to a more pastoral existence. It is however far from an idealised society, with many refusing to play nice. Well worth a listen, great narration which really draws you in.

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1 person found this helpful

an unexpected gem, scratches post apocalyptic itch

Great to have a post apocalyptic book that isn't about zombies. I love all the detail about how they've had to adapt and the challenges they face. looking forward to listening to book 2 and hope to buy books 3 and 4 when they get adapted to audiobook.

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One potential epitaph for our time

A prophetic tale; at times bleak, hopeful at others. i resisted awarding a full 5 stars only because the perspective is somewhat limited. i particularly enjoyed the reading by Jim Meskimen which added a certain wholesome quality to what might have been just another tale of dystopia. There are hints of a supernatural element which i expect to be developed and I look forward to reading further works in this series and also the author's non fiction, all of which seem to be available here.

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The new old days

This was a terrific book, very plausible and thought provoking of mankind’s future. I loved it and could not stop listening to it, the narrator was great. Thoroughly recommend this book!

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Thought provoking

A great post apocalyptic tale, exceptionally well delivered by an excellent voice actor.
I swear Wayne was played by Jack Nicholson!

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2 people found this helpful

worth a listen

didn't feel like there was a start, middle and end. did enjoy it though. I couldn't get through it as quick as other books.

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End of the World meets Frontier Country

What did you like most about World Made by Hand?

Although the Author has a definite political agenda (left of centre) I didn't feel it was being constantly rammed down my throat as is often the case with this genre. I enjoyed not being told everything at once. How did the world stop why is it the way it is now? This was drip fed on an almost need to know basis which kept me wanting more. I will definitely buy more in the series. As an atheist I tend to be wary when religion pops up in any book. However, in this book I found the use of religion interesting in the binding together of a community. A new religion moving in on an established faith and the possible outcomes. There are other underlying issues mentioned in the book that may be looked at later; the number of children being born; the issues of race and ethnicity; and a nascent serf system developing under a benevolent liege lord

What was one of the most memorable moments of World Made by Hand?

There are no set pieces so it is difficult to say. However, I found the visit to Carpville to serve an arrest warrant reminiscent of scenes from westerns, or a visit to an off-world market from a science fiction film. Bizarre and creepy with enough tension to make you concerned for the main protagonists. .

Have you listened to any of Jim Meskimen’s other performances? How does this one compare?

I have not listened to Jim Meskimen before, so have nothing to compare it to. However, I did enjoy his performance and at no point did it grate, although being English I would have issues over some pronunciations.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Killing is messy and the law is notional idea in this world of the future. We have characters who want to uphold and use the law, but also realise that sometimes you have to just kill people. It's not cartoon violence. When people die you are surprised and in some cases sorrowful.

Any additional comments?

It is nice to read a book in this genre where sex is okay and sex outside of marriage is a given. No mention yet of same sex relationships, but I live in hope.

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3 people found this helpful

Best audio listening. Great book!

The narrator is amazing, loved it!!
Interprets all characters. Great story too. Thank you.

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Excellent

Such a refreshing change to have a more believable post apocalyptic storyline.
I thoroughly enjoyed both books (so far?) in this series. Great characters that where brought to life with outstandingly good narration.
More please!

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