3.19
"A Small Armageddon" by Mordecai Roshwald is a chilling and thought-provoking novel that explores the consequences of nuclear warfare. Published in 1962, at the height of the Cold War, the book is a stark warning about the dangers of nuclear proliferation and the potential for human annihilation. The novel is written in the form of a series of letters between two military officers, one American and one Soviet, who are in charge of their respective country's nuclear arsenals. The letters reveal the officers' growing obsession with each other, as they engage in a deadly game of cat and mouse, each trying to outmaneuver the other and prevent a nuclear attack. Roshwald's writing is crisp and clear, with a sharp, satirical edge. He brilliantly captures the absurdity of the situation, as the two officers become increasingly paranoid and delusional, convinced that they are the only ones who can save the world from destruction. The book is a powerful indictment of the military-industrial complex and the blind pursuit of power and dominance. It highlights the dangers of dehumanization and the loss of perspective that can occur when people become obsessed with technology and weaponry. Despite being written over half a century ago, "A Small Armageddon" remains remarkably relevant today. With the ongoing threat of nuclear proliferation and the rise of nationalism and militarism around the world, the book serves as a timely reminder of the need for diplomacy, understanding, and cooperation in order to avoid the catastrophic consequences of war. In conclusion, "A Small Armageddon" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that offers a powerful critique of the military-industrial complex and the dangers of nuclear warfare. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the Cold War, the politics of war and peace, and the human condition in the face of technological advancement...
Pat Frank
Alas, Babylon
This 1959 novel tells the story of a small Florida town in the aftermath of a nuclear war. The focus on the everyday struggles of the survivors makes for a compelling read, and the book's treatment of nuclear war is similar in theme to 'A Small Armageddon'.
Learn MoreNevil Shute
On the Beach
A classic novel of nuclear war, 'On the Beach' tells the story of a group of people in Australia who are waiting for the fallout from a nuclear war in the Northern Hemisphere to reach them. The book's exploration of the human condition in the face of impending doom is a good match for fans of 'A Small Armageddon'.
Learn MoreCormac McCarthy
The Road
A post-apocalyptic novel about a father and son trying to survive in a world that has been devastated by an unspecified cataclysm, 'The Road' is a powerful and moving book that will appeal to readers who enjoyed the bleak and uncompromising vision of 'A Small Armageddon'.
Learn MoreMordecai Roshwald
Level 7
Another novel by the author of 'A Small Armageddon', 'Level 7' tells the story of a man who is living in a nuclear bunker deep underground. The book's focus on the psychological effects of nuclear war makes it a good choice for readers who enjoyed the thought-provoking themes of 'A Small Armageddon'.
Learn MoreDavid Brin
The Postman
In this post-apocalyptic novel, a drifter discovers the remnants of the US Postal Service and decides to use it to bring hope and order to the scattered communities he encounters. Fans of 'A Small Armageddon' will enjoy the book's exploration of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Learn MoreJohn Wyndham
The Day of the Triffids
In this classic science fiction novel, a meteor shower leaves most of the population blind, and at the same time, a new species of plant begins to attack and eat people. The book's focus on the dangers of new technologies and the fragility of human society make it a good match for fans of 'A Small Armageddon'.
Learn MoreJohn Christopher
The Death of Grass
In this post-apocalyptic novel, a virus has killed all the grasses, leading to the collapse of human society. The book's exploration of the breakdown of social order and the lengths people will go to survive make it a good choice for readers who enjoyed the dark vision of 'A Small Armageddon'.
Learn MoreJohn Brunner
The Sheep Look Up
In this science fiction novel, the world is slowly being poisoned by pollution and overpopulation. The book's focus on the dangers of unchecked technological progress and the potential consequences for human society make it a good match for fans of 'A Small Armageddon'.
Learn MoreJ.G. Ballard
The Drowned World
In this science fiction novel, the Earth has become much hotter, and the ice caps have melted, causing the sea levels to rise and flood most of the world. The book's exploration of the psychological effects of environmental change and the struggle for survival make it a good choice for readers who enjoyed the thought-provoking themes of 'A Small Armageddon'.
Learn MoreStephen King
The Stand
In this epic post-apocalyptic novel, a deadly virus has killed off 99% of the world's population. The book's exploration of the struggle between good and evil and the rebuilding of society make it a good choice for readers who enjoyed the epic scope of 'A Small Armageddon'.
Learn More