Content levels
Hero archetypes
Heroine archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Themes
Synopsis
H. G. Wells, in his 1906 In the Days of the Comet uses the vapors of a comet to trigger a deep and lasting change in humanity's perspective on themselves and the world. In the build-up to a great war, poor student William Leadford struggles against the harsh conditions the lower-class live under. He also falls in love with a middle-class girl named Nettie. But when he discovers that Nettie has eloped with a man of upper-class standing, William struggles with the betrayal, and in the disorder of his own mind decides to buy a revolver and kill them both. All through this a large comet lights the night sky with a green glow, bright enough that the street lamps are left unlit.
Is In the days of the comet appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 16 and up.
Contains themes of planned murder driven by jealousy and class resentment, plus depictions of mental instability. The comet brings a transformative perspective shift that resolves the violence, but the buildup involves dark thoughts and a protagonist planning to kill.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, mild sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include murder, violence, and class struggle (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Teens interested in classic science fiction exploring how humanity might change and what drives people to violence will find this thought-provoking.