This post-apocalyptic novel was published in 1957 and set in 1963. It takes place primarily in and around Melbourne Australia. World war has decimated the northern hemisphere and nuclear debris is slowly spreading on the winds to the southern hemisphere. The residents know that in about nine months they will all get radiation sickness and die. But for now … life goes on.

I cannot remember the last time I was so affected by a book. On a basic level, it touched and awakened all those fears and insecurities I experienced as a child, living in a military town during the Cuban Missile Crisis. I’ve had dreams about the situation these characters find themselves in. What would I do if I knew I was going to die? Would I plant daffodil bulbs I’d never see flower? Would I abandon my obligations to indulge in hobbies? Would I give up and seek the numbing effects of alcohol? Would I embrace the chance at a new love? Would I end it quickly or die a slow agonizing death?

It’s not a “teary” book, but I was in tears at the end. I’m really glad I finally read this book that has been on my to-be-read list, literally, for decades.