Alas, Babylon
In 'Alas, Babylon', Pat Frank paints a gripping tale of survival in a post-apocalyptic America following a nuclear disaster. The small town of Fort Repose becomes a microcosm of humanity's resilience as its residents face scarce resources and societal collapse. With the onset of chaos, friendships are tested and moral lines blur, forcing the characters to confront their deepest fears and instincts. Frank's vivid storytelling immerses readers in a world where civilization hangs by a thread and the fight for survival takes on new meaning. Will the community rise from the ashes, or succumbs to desperation?
By Pat Frank
Published: 2005
"It is not what you have lost, but what you dare to hope for that counts."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
The classic apocalyptic novel that stunned the world.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from Alas, Babylon
About the Author
Pat Frank
Pat Frank was an American author best known for his post-apocalyptic novel 'Alas, Babylon', published in 1959. The novel explores the aftermath of a nuclear war in a small Florida community and is celebrated for its realistic portrayal of survival and human resilience. Frank's writing style is characterized by its attention to detail, character development, and a deep understanding of societal dynamics. In addition to 'Alas, Babylon', he wrote other novels and worked as a journalist, contributing to his nuanced narratives. Frank's works often reflect his personal experiences during World War II and his concern for the future of humanity.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Pat Frank
- Published
- July 2005
- Publisher
- Harper Collins
- ISBN
- 0060741872
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 354
- Genres
- Post-ApocalypticFictionDystopianScience Fiction
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
The Hunger Games
Suzanne Collins
The Left Hand of Darkness
Ursula K. Le Guin
The Road
Cormac McCarthy
The Stand
Stephen King
The Handmaid's Tale
Margaret Atwood
Fahrenheit 451
Ray Bradbury
Astounding
Alec Nevala-Lee
Parable of the Sower
Octavia E. Butler
You're Not Enough (And That's Okay)
Allie Beth Stuckey
Unveiled: How Western Liberals Empower Radical Islam
Yasmine Mohammed
Station Eleven
Emily St. John Mandel
Brothers Forever
Tom Sileo, Tom Manion
Debt
David Graeber
From a Native Daughter
Haunani-Kay Trask
William Shakespeare: The Complete Works
William Shakespeare
I Am Legend
Richard Matheson
Unfollow
Megan Phelps-Roper
Breakthrough Advertising
Eugene Schwartz
2001: a Space Odyssey
Arthur C. Clarke
Neuromancer
William Gibson
Labyrinths
Jorge Luis Borges
Grant
Ron Chernow
Dear Mr. M
Herman Koch
A Tomb for Boris Davidovich
Danilo Kiš
My Last Supper
Melanie Dunea
Management Mess to Leadership Success
Scott Jeffrey Miller
The Peripheral
William Gibson
Quicklet on Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
Richard Childers
Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl
Carrie Brownstein
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Naval Ravikant's Book Recommendations
Naval Ravikant is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher, best known as the co-founder of AngelList, a platform that connects startups with investors. Ravikant is a prolific thinker and writer on topics such as startups, investing, and personal well-being, sharing his wisdom through essays, podcasts, and social media. He has invested in over 100 companies, including Uber, Twitter, and Yammer, making him one of Silicon Valley’s most successful angel investors. Ravikant is also known for his philosophical musings on wealth, happiness, and the meaning of life, which have garnered him a large and dedicated following.
View Collection
Anna Kendrick's Book Recommendations
Anna Kendrick is an acclaimed actress and author, best known for her versatile performances in film and theater. She gained widespread recognition for her role in the "Twilight" series and earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in "Up in the Air." In 2016, Kendrick expanded her creative repertoire by publishing her memoir, "Scrappy Little Nobody," which offers a candid, humorous look at her life and career. The book became a New York Times bestseller, showcasing her sharp wit and storytelling talent. Kendrick continues to influence both the entertainment and literary worlds with her engaging presence and authentic voice.
View Collection
Ben Shapiro's Book Recommendations
Ben Shapiro is an American conservative political commentator, author, and lawyer, known for his sharp analytical skills and outspoken views. He graduated from UCLA at the age of 20 and Harvard Law School at 23, demonstrating his early intellectual prowess. Shapiro is the author of several best-selling books including "Bullies: How the Left's Culture of Fear and Intimidation Silences Americans" and "The Right Side of History: How Reason and Moral Purpose Made the West Great." He is the co-founder and editor emeritus of The Daily Wire, a popular conservative news and opinion website. Through his writing and media presence, Shapiro has significantly influenced contemporary political discourse in the United States.
View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View Collection
Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations
Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.
View Collection
Joel Connolly's Book Recommendations
Joel Connolly is an acclaimed author renowned for his evocative storytelling and profound explorations of human nature. His debut novel, "Silent Whispers," garnered critical acclaim and won the prestigious Man Booker Prize, establishing him as a significant voice in contemporary literature. Connolly's works often delve into themes of identity, loss, and redemption, resonating deeply with a diverse readership. In addition to his novels, he has contributed thought-provoking essays to major literary journals, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile writer. Connolly continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide with his compelling narratives and insightful prose.
View Collection
Charlize Theron's Book Recommendations
Charlize Theron is a South African-American actress, producer, and philanthropist, known for her roles in a wide range of films, from action blockbusters to critically acclaimed dramas. She gained international recognition for her performance in Monster, for which she won an Academy Award for Best Actress. Theron’s versatility as an actress is evident in her work in films such as Mad Max: Fury Road, Atomic Blonde, and Bombshell. Beyond acting, she is a producer through her company, Denver and Delilah Productions, and has been involved in various socially conscious films. Theron is also an outspoken advocate for women’s rights and LGBTQ+ equality, using her platform to bring attention to issues such as domestic violence and HIV/AIDS through her Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project. In addition to her humanitarian efforts, Theron continues to push boundaries as one of the most powerful women in Hollywood, often taking on physically demanding roles that challenge traditional gender norms.
View Collection
George R.R. Martin's Book Recommendations
George R.R. Martin is the author of the acclaimed A Song of Ice and Fire series, which inspired the HBO hit series Game of Thrones. Known for his complex characters, intricate political intrigue, and epic world-building, Martin has reshaped modern fantasy literature. He has won numerous awards, including the Hugo and Nebula awards, and is considered one of the greatest fantasy writers of his time. His storytelling, often marked by its unpredictable nature, has captivated millions of readers and viewers worldwide. Martin continues to work on the highly anticipated next installment of the series.
View Collection
Anthony Jeselnik's Book Recommendations
Anthony Jeselnik is an American stand-up comedian, writer, and actor known for his dark, edgy humor and his ability to push boundaries in comedy. Jeselnik’s unique style often involves taboo subjects and a deadpan delivery, which has earned him a reputation as one of the boldest and most controversial comedians working today. He has released several stand-up specials, including Thoughts and Prayers and Fire in the Maternity Ward, and has appeared on shows like Comedy Central Roasts and The Jeselnik Offensive. Jeselnik’s fearless approach to comedy and his willingness to address difficult topics have made him a distinctive voice in the comedy world.
View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View Collection
Matt Mullenweg's Book Recommendations
Matt Mullenweg is an influential American entrepreneur and web developer, best known for co-founding WordPress, the open-source software that powers over 40% of the web. Born in 1984 in Houston, Texas, Mullenweg's work has revolutionized digital publishing and democratized web content creation. As the CEO of Automattic, the parent company of WordPress.com, he has expanded the platform's reach and capabilities, fostering a vibrant community of developers and users. Mullenweg is also an advocate for open-source software and has contributed significantly to its proliferation and adoption. His impact on digital literature and publishing is profound, enabling countless individuals and organizations to share their voices online.
View Collection
Peter Thiel's Book Recommendations
Peter Thiel is a renowned entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author best known for co-founding PayPal and Palantir Technologies. He played a pivotal role in the early growth of Facebook as its first outside investor. Thiel's literary contributions include his influential book "Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future," which offers insights into innovation, entrepreneurship, and the future of technology. A prominent figure in Silicon Valley, he has significantly impacted the tech industry's landscape through his investments and thought leadership. Thiel's work continues to inspire entrepreneurs and innovators around the world.
View Collection
Mindy Kaling's Book Recommendations
Mindy Kaling is an American actress, comedian, writer, and producer, best known for her work on The Office, where she played Kelly Kapoor and served as a writer and producer. Kaling has since created and starred in her own shows, including The Mindy Project and Never Have I Ever, earning critical acclaim for her unique voice and humor. She is also the author of several best-selling memoirs, where she shares her insights on Hollywood, identity, and personal growth. Kaling is a trailblazer for women of color in entertainment, using her platform to tell diverse and authentic stories. Her contributions to television and film have made her a significant figure in comedy and media.
View Collection
Mark Zuckerberg's Book Recommendations
Mark Zuckerberg is an American technology entrepreneur best known for co-founding Facebook, the world's largest social media platform, which transformed global communication. Born on May 14, 1984, in White Plains, New York, he launched Facebook in 2004 while attending Harvard University. Under his leadership, Facebook expanded rapidly, influencing the social media landscape and digital advertising. Zuckerberg has also authored numerous articles and essays on technology, innovation, and the future of the internet. His work has had a profound impact on how people connect and share information in the digital age.
View Collection“It is not what you have lost, but what you dare to hope for that counts.”
Alas, Babylon
By Pat Frank
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.