Childhood's End

Arthur C. Clarke

One day, in our future, the aliens came. Mankind was exploring the moon, making technological advances, progressing. Then the Overlords arrived. We were no longer alone in the Universe.

Humans quickly recognize all their work is for naught. The Overlords have much greater power. The Overlords set some early policies, then just watch. They have war and crime abolished through different means. Space research stops. In most other ways Man continues as before. The major frustration is that the Overlords will not show themselves.

As the book goes on, allusions are made about the future. The Overlords seem to be all powerful, but is that the case? They are watching human beings for a specific reason. How can that focal point be determined? They never attack in any way although they will use force as necessary.

This novel is the saga of the end of mankind. It touches on some deep philosophical questions. In order to strive to be better, do humans need adversity, quarrels, and even war? Where is mankind going? It also has an interesting story to follow through. The Overlords are presented very well, and their true mission is revealed. The reader finds compassion for the Overlords as much as mankind. This book presents an interesting future for humanity.

Fountains of Paradise by Arthur C. Clarke