The Long Tomorrow Book Summary - The Long Tomorrow Book explained in key points

The Long Tomorrow summary

Leigh Brackett Howard Andrew Jones

Brief summary

The Long Tomorrow is a thought-provoking novel by Leigh Brackett that explores a post-apocalyptic world where technological advancements are prohibited. It follows the journey of two young men as they seek to escape their restrictive society and discover a new way of living.

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    The Long Tomorrow
    Summary of key ideas

    The Journey of Two Cousins in a Post-Apocalyptic World

    In The Long Tomorrow by Leigh Brackett, we are introduced to a post-apocalyptic world where a nuclear war has destroyed most of civilization. The story follows two cousins, Len and Esau, who live in a small, technophobic community in the Midwest. The community is governed by strict religious beliefs that prohibit the use of advanced technology, and any community that grows beyond a certain size is destroyed to prevent the re-emergence of the pre-war society.

    Len and Esau, however, are fascinated by the stories of a hidden city called Bartorstown, where technology is not only allowed but is also thriving. They dream of escaping their oppressive community and finding this city. After a tragic event, they decide to leave their home and set out on a journey to find Bartorstown, despite the dangers and the possibility of being exiled or killed if they are caught.

    The Struggles and Discoveries Along the Way

    As they travel, Len and Esau encounter various communities, each with its own way of life and beliefs. They face numerous challenges, including harsh weather, dangerous animals, and hostile people. They also struggle with their own beliefs and fears, as they question the teachings of their community and the existence of Bartorstown.

    During their journey, they meet a man named Mord, who claims to have been to Bartorstown. He tells them about the city's advanced technology and the freedom its inhabitants enjoy. However, he also warns them about the city's isolationist policies and the potential dangers of revealing its existence to the outside world.

    The City of Bartorstown and Its Secrets

    After many hardships, Len and Esau finally reach Bartorstown. They are amazed by the city's advanced technology and the freedom its inhabitants enjoy. However, they soon realize that Mord's warnings were not unfounded. The city is ruled by a small group of people who control all the technology and keep the rest of the population in ignorance and servitude.

    Len and Esau are torn between their desire to live in a society that embraces technology and their moral obligation to help the oppressed citizens of Bartorstown. They eventually decide to leave the city and return to their community, hoping to use their knowledge to improve the lives of their people without repeating the mistakes of Bartorstown.

    The Return and the New Beginning

    When they return, Len and Esau are faced with suspicion and hostility from their community. They are accused of being contaminated by the outside world and are sentenced to exile. However, their experiences have changed them, and they refuse to accept their fate. They manage to convince some of their friends to join them, and together they start a new community based on the principles of freedom, equality, and responsible use of technology.

    In conclusion, The Long Tomorrow is a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between technology, society, and individual freedom. It raises important questions about the dangers of blind adherence to tradition and the responsible use of advanced technology. The story of Len and Esau's journey serves as a cautionary tale and a hopeful vision of a better future.

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    What is The Long Tomorrow about?

    The Long Tomorrow is a thought-provoking science fiction novel that explores a post-apocalyptic world where technology is forbidden. Written by Leigh Brackett, it delves into themes of progress, freedom, and the consequences of limiting knowledge. Set in a society that fears the mistakes of the past, the book follows two young men as they challenge the status quo and seek a better future.

    The Long Tomorrow Review

    The Long Tomorrow (2020) explores a post-apocalyptic world where technology is shunned in favor of agrarian societies. Reasons to dive into this book:

    • Explores a dystopian future where society rebuilds without technology, prompting reflections on potential futures.
    • Provides a critical commentary on the consequences of technology and the human spirit in an engaging narrative.
    • The rich world-building and complex characters ensure a captivating read, offering a fresh take on the post-apocalyptic genre.

    Who should read The Long Tomorrow?

    • Science fiction enthusiasts who enjoy post-apocalyptic settings
    • Readers interested in exploring the consequences of nuclear war
    • Those who appreciate thought-provoking and philosophical narratives

    About the Author

    Leigh Brackett was a renowned science fiction author who made significant contributions to the genre. With a career spanning several decades, she wrote numerous novels and short stories, including 'The Long Tomorrow' and 'The Sword of Rhiannon'. Brackett's work often featured strong, independent female characters and captivating, otherworldly settings. Her talent for creating immersive and thought-provoking narratives solidified her place as one of the pioneering voices in science fiction.

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    The Long Tomorrow FAQs 

    What is the main message of The Long Tomorrow?

    The main message of The Long Tomorrow is the exploration of futuristic societal structures and the consequences of technology on humanity.

    How long does it take to read The Long Tomorrow?

    The estimated reading time for The Long Tomorrow is a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in about 15 minutes.

    Is The Long Tomorrow a good book? Is it worth reading?

    The Long Tomorrow is worth reading for its gripping narrative and thought-provoking reflections on society's evolution. A fascinating read.

    Who is the author of The Long Tomorrow?

    The authors of The Long Tomorrow are Leigh Brackett and Howard Andrew Jones.

    What to read after The Long Tomorrow?

    If you're wondering what to read next after The Long Tomorrow, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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