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The Drowned Cities by Paolo Bacigalupi
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In The Drowned Cities, did you enjoy ...
... A relentless journey to survive and uncover the truth in a war-torn, collapsing world?
The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness
If you were drawn to Mahlia and Mouse’s desperate flight through the ruined landscape and the constant pressure of survival in The Drowned Cities, you’ll be riveted by Todd’s struggle as he runs from danger and uncovers haunting secrets in The Knife of Never Letting Go. The book’s propulsive mission and high stakes will keep you turning pages late into the night.
... A haunting, beautifully realized vision of civilization after collapse?
Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel
If the ravaged, waterlogged America of The Drowned Cities fascinated you with its rich, immersive setting and the way nature and humanity intertwine, Station Eleven will captivate you with its detailed, atmospheric worldbuilding and its moving portraits of people forging meaning amid the ruins.
... A bleak, violent journey through a ruined world with moral ambiguity at every turn?
The Road by Cormac McCarthy
If you appreciated the way Mahlia and Tool must make hard, sometimes ruthless choices to survive in The Drowned Cities, you’ll find the father and son’s harrowing journey in The Road just as gripping. The ethical gray areas and tough decisions create a haunting, thought-provoking read.
... A dark, violent world where young protagonists must fight for survival against monstrous odds?
The Girl With All The Gifts by M. R. Carey
If the brutal, unflinching tone and the depiction of child soldiers facing horrifying violence in The Drowned Cities stuck with you, The Girl With All the Gifts offers a similarly gritty atmosphere, with memorable scenes of survival and moral dilemmas in a devastated world.
... A young protagonist’s coming-of-age and search for hope in a violent, post-apocalyptic America?
The Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler
If you connected with Mahlia’s transformation and resilience as she adapts to her harsh reality in The Drowned Cities, you’ll be moved by Lauren’s journey of growth and discovery in Parable of the Sower, as she grapples with loss, danger, and the creation of a new vision for humanity.
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