52. Childhood's End

by Arthur C. Clarke (224 pgs)

Rating: 4

Mankind stands on the brink of launching themselves into space and then the Overlords show up. Who are the Overlords? Interstellar busybodies intent on forcing mankind to mature into a peaceful species. Of course there's more to it...but no one's entirely sure what and therein lies the intriguing mystery.

Childhood's End is certainly science fiction but I wouldn't argue with anyone who wanted to put in horror. There's no boogie monsters or scary blood filled scenes, just a very chilling concept. The writing is adequate although not stellar. This a completely plot driven book. Don't expect to fall in love with any of the characters. That being said...it's a really good book that's difficult to talk about without giving something important away.

Read it, all ye sci fi fans.