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Wool #1
Wool
Thousands of them have lived underground. They've lived there so long, there are only legends about people living anywhere else. Such a life requires rules. Strict rules. There are things that must not be discussed. Like going outside. Never mention you might like going outside.
Or you'll get what you wish for.
Or you'll get what you wish for.
594 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 29, 2011
About the author
Hugh Howey
123 books55.2k followersI'm the author of WOOL, a top 5 science fiction book on Amazon. I also wrote the Molly Fyde saga, a tale of a teenager from the 25th century who is repeatedly told that girls can't do certain things -- and then does them anyway.
A theme in my books is the celebration of overcoming odds and of not allowing the cruelty of the universe to change who you are in the process. Most of them are classified as science fiction, since they often take place in the future, but if you love great stories and memorable characters, you'll dig what you find here. I promise.
A theme in my books is the celebration of overcoming odds and of not allowing the cruelty of the universe to change who you are in the process. Most of them are classified as science fiction, since they often take place in the future, but if you love great stories and memorable characters, you'll dig what you find here. I promise.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,617 reviews
April 9, 2013
Basically what my two stars boils down to is this: I had too many questions by the end and I didn't feel attached to any of the characters. I didn't think the "big reveal" was all that exciting or as terrifying as I'm sure it was meant to be either. And the more I found out about the world, such as the technology or what happened in the past, the more questions I had that were never answered. I realize this is a short story and it continues on, but if you're going to sell me a book it needs to feel whole.
Normally when a story features a husband and wife and something happens to one of them I'm a ball of emotions, but this couple's relationship felt flat and mechanical. At one point the guy talks about sobbing through the bars of the jail and I felt absolutely nothing. There's this level of despair that I'm supposed to be feeling for these two people, their relationship, and their potential offspring, but I honestly couldn't care less if the whole silo went up in flames and everybody died. That's probably not a good sign.
Thankfully, Howey writes well so I didn't feel like I was slogging through this and I never felt bored, but I'm not the biggest fan of post-apocalyptic dystopia (or short stories, for that matter) so I think fans of the genre would enjoy it more than I did. This is free on Amazon right now and the omnibus version that contains the first five books is only$1.99 (at the time of this review it was, now on 4/6/13 I see it's been bumped up to $5.99. Hrm.) With the first story being so short and also free it's an easy choice to find out for yourself if it's something you'd like to check out or not. I didn't love this story but Howey dangled just enough in front of me that I might want to find out what happens next, but honestly I don't think I'll ever care enough to continue. I just don't think I'm the intended audience.
Also, here's hoping my choice to read and review a self-published book doesn't come back to haunt me. Oh lord, what have I done ...
Normally when a story features a husband and wife and something happens to one of them I'm a ball of emotions, but this couple's relationship felt flat and mechanical. At one point the guy talks about sobbing through the bars of the jail and I felt absolutely nothing. There's this level of despair that I'm supposed to be feeling for these two people, their relationship, and their potential offspring, but I honestly couldn't care less if the whole silo went up in flames and everybody died. That's probably not a good sign.
Thankfully, Howey writes well so I didn't feel like I was slogging through this and I never felt bored, but I'm not the biggest fan of post-apocalyptic dystopia (or short stories, for that matter) so I think fans of the genre would enjoy it more than I did. This is free on Amazon right now and the omnibus version that contains the first five books is only
Also, here's hoping my choice to read and review a self-published book doesn't come back to haunt me. Oh lord, what have I done ...
September 11, 2018
Wanting to go outside seems like a reasonable thing. Unless, of course, you live in an underground silo that protects you from the toxic air above ground. Then, maybe it’s better to stay inside! In Hugh Howey’s post-apocalyptic tale, Wool (Book 1), the stage is set to unravel the mysteries of living in this silo. Through an investigation by the silo’s sheriff, Holston, we learn something of the circumstances of his wife’s death as well as a little bit about this community (which is really its own world). This is a short and quick read. All the same, I thought this first installment in the series was slow to get started; however, there is a buildup of suspense regarding the whole silo community which is intriguing. I think I was hooked by the end. Howey does set up an interesting post-apocalyptic (and for now self-contained) world. 3.5 stars.
March 30, 2012
A Badass Hidden Gem...
http://badassbookreviews.com/badass-h...
OMG, this short story was absolutely fantastic. Who is this author and why is he not on everyone's radar. Must read, don't think about it, it's a short story and won't take up much of your time and I think it's only 99 cents, just go get it! Hurry...go.......why are you still reading this...gooooo
Go now...
http://badassbookreviews.com/badass-h...
OMG, this short story was absolutely fantastic. Who is this author and why is he not on everyone's radar. Must read, don't think about it, it's a short story and won't take up much of your time and I think it's only 99 cents, just go get it! Hurry...go.......why are you still reading this...gooooo
Go now...
March 2, 2012
Wool by Hugh Howey is a short but worthy read. The author masterfully conveys the feeling of desperation, doom, and unrest that stem from questionably voluntary living/imprisonment in the confines of a giant concrete underground shelter in the toxic world, as well as the overpowering need and drive to find out whether there is truth in the faint but forbidden hope that there just may be something better outside.
For such a short book, the themes are very well-developed. The narration is great, the pacing and the feeling of suspense well-realized. The ending may be a surprise for some readers or the inevitable conclusion for others, but it is shocking regardless.
On to the next installment immediately. The bleak and terrifying world of Wool is somehow addictive, and I want to find out more!
For such a short book, the themes are very well-developed. The narration is great, the pacing and the feeling of suspense well-realized. The ending may be a surprise for some readers or the inevitable conclusion for others, but it is shocking regardless.
On to the next installment immediately. The bleak and terrifying world of Wool is somehow addictive, and I want to find out more!
August 15, 2014
Sometimes I weep for the future generations and their concept of literacy. I know, this makes me a grumpy curmudgeon. But I can't help it when I read stuff like this.
While poorly written books have always been with us, and some poorly written books have become popular bestsellers, the self-publishing revolution has opened the floodgates to writing like this being praised and rewarded far beyond the ken. People, just because a metaphor is tortured beyond belief, that does not make the writing literary. Or anywhere close to objectively good.
The beginning of WOOL breaks the first commandment of creative writing: Show, don't tell. Instead, we are told...and told...and told...in language that any self-respecting editor would've lopped off at its pretentious, trying too hard knees. The first few pages read like an assignment turned in during the first week of Creative Writing 101.
Good writing is crisp, clean, precisely tuned. Lots of flowery metaphors and similes and adverbs and adjectives are not good writing. It's a neophyte's idea of how he should write instead. And it's painful to read.
However, once the story actually starts - when Holston locks himself in the cell and asks to see the Mayor - Howey seems to forget trying to impress whatever committees rejected him from MFA writing programs and the prose kicks into high, suspenseful gear. This part of the book earned four stars from me.
But alas, that only last so long and before the reader knows it, we're back to word vomit that goes nowhere fast. Not to mention that the world building falls apart with only the slightest poke.
The ending is a reverse that only someone unfamiliar with American pop culture and science fiction tropes over the last fifty years didn't see coming. Hint: if the words "You maniacs! You blew it up! Goddamn you all to hell!" "Soylent Green is people" or "Luke, I am your father" mean nothing to you, then go right ahead and be surprised.
So one star for the beginning and end, four stars for the middle, for an average grade of two stars.
Only recommended if you have curiosity about self-published works that are hit by the zeitgeist lightning, and you are a fast reader so you don't waste too much time on this slight, over-written and cliched story.
While poorly written books have always been with us, and some poorly written books have become popular bestsellers, the self-publishing revolution has opened the floodgates to writing like this being praised and rewarded far beyond the ken. People, just because a metaphor is tortured beyond belief, that does not make the writing literary. Or anywhere close to objectively good.
The beginning of WOOL breaks the first commandment of creative writing: Show, don't tell. Instead, we are told...and told...and told...in language that any self-respecting editor would've lopped off at its pretentious, trying too hard knees. The first few pages read like an assignment turned in during the first week of Creative Writing 101.
Good writing is crisp, clean, precisely tuned. Lots of flowery metaphors and similes and adverbs and adjectives are not good writing. It's a neophyte's idea of how he should write instead. And it's painful to read.
However, once the story actually starts - when Holston locks himself in the cell and asks to see the Mayor - Howey seems to forget trying to impress whatever committees rejected him from MFA writing programs and the prose kicks into high, suspenseful gear. This part of the book earned four stars from me.
But alas, that only last so long and before the reader knows it, we're back to word vomit that goes nowhere fast. Not to mention that the world building falls apart with only the slightest poke.
The ending is a reverse that only someone unfamiliar with American pop culture and science fiction tropes over the last fifty years didn't see coming. Hint: if the words "You maniacs! You blew it up! Goddamn you all to hell!" "Soylent Green is people" or "Luke, I am your father" mean nothing to you, then go right ahead and be surprised.
So one star for the beginning and end, four stars for the middle, for an average grade of two stars.
Only recommended if you have curiosity about self-published works that are hit by the zeitgeist lightning, and you are a fast reader so you don't waste too much time on this slight, over-written and cliched story.
July 26, 2015
Have you ever felt guilty about not liking a book? Or is it only me? Or do I have a friend?
I will be honest. I had this book for seven, SEVEN months and this is my fifth attempt at reading it. I have had more success and pleasure in watching paint dry. The writing doesn't grip me at all.
I get it, I really do. I can see how there would be troves of people who like this book. I wanted to like this book so bad, too. The writing just bored me to tears. For the life of me I couldn't get anywhere and I tried so hard.
The storyline is right up my alley, but the way the author phrased things made me feel like I am attending an Entmoot. The plot development was so slow it made my eyelids rust... I am giving up. To all those lovely people who wanted to chat about Wool, alas I am sorry to say....
I will be honest. I had this book for seven, SEVEN months and this is my fifth attempt at reading it. I have had more success and pleasure in watching paint dry. The writing doesn't grip me at all.
I get it, I really do. I can see how there would be troves of people who like this book. I wanted to like this book so bad, too. The writing just bored me to tears. For the life of me I couldn't get anywhere and I tried so hard.
The storyline is right up my alley, but the way the author phrased things made me feel like I am attending an Entmoot. The plot development was so slow it made my eyelids rust... I am giving up. To all those lovely people who wanted to chat about Wool, alas I am sorry to say....
January 18, 2013
Book 1 of the Wool Omnibus. Short at some 49 pages – and its got my attention.
The remnants of mankind live in a giant circular Silo going into the ground – outside is an uninhabitable waste with toxic corrosive air. We aren’t really told what’s happened. People can view the outside world through a screen that’s fed from four live feed camera’s outside. Problem - the cameras need to be cleaned. Problem - going outside is a death sentence. Solution – send out condemned criminals to clean the cameras in a suit that will last long enough to get the job done.
So straight up I’m like, oh yeah? I know how this goes. Can’t sucker punch this smart cookie. But I was well and truly sucker punched. And what’s more – Howey used my own scepticism against me to do it. And now I’ve got to get to the next book because I still haven’t wrapped my head around what just happened. Very clever intro – well clever providing he can answer some of the questions that have my brain in a spin.
5 stars
The remnants of mankind live in a giant circular Silo going into the ground – outside is an uninhabitable waste with toxic corrosive air. We aren’t really told what’s happened. People can view the outside world through a screen that’s fed from four live feed camera’s outside. Problem - the cameras need to be cleaned. Problem - going outside is a death sentence. Solution – send out condemned criminals to clean the cameras in a suit that will last long enough to get the job done.
So straight up I’m like, oh yeah? I know how this goes. Can’t sucker punch this smart cookie. But I was well and truly sucker punched. And what’s more – Howey used my own scepticism against me to do it. And now I’ve got to get to the next book because I still haven’t wrapped my head around what just happened. Very clever intro – well clever providing he can answer some of the questions that have my brain in a spin.
5 stars
January 3, 2013
Honestly, I don't see what all the hype is about. The book ain't terrible, and it was certainly worth the $0 price tag, but I don't understand how anyone could possibly claim it is at the top or anywhere near the top of the post-apocalyptic genre. Maybe my expectations were set too high going into it; if I'd had the experience of finding a diamond in the rough like the first readers of Wool probably felt themselves to have done, I would be more invested in singing its praises. But as it is the popularity of this book is a complete mystery to me.
The twist struck me as convoluted and tacked-on. I'll grant that it was somewhat of a surprise (I worked it out before Holston, but not long before), but it just didn't make enough sense to stick with me. A good twist ending should see all the pieces finally falling into place in a way that makes you want to hit yourself for not seeing it all along. This one raised too many questions. Why did the silo society require a view of the outside so desperately if it was such a grim desolate place? Why did they insist that the work of cleaning sensors be done by the banished, when they appeared to have the technology for brief expeditions into the outside world (which without the fake visor images would have only served to further justify their practice of staying in the silo all of the time)? How exactly does the false image of paradise encourage people to clean the sensors? I can imagine that it might have that effect on some people, but it seems really odd that such a ploy would come up in a brain storming session on the issue. Much more effective would be finding some kind of leverage to bring to bear. It wouldn't even have to be a threat: If I was going to be banished into the wasteland either way, I would clean the sensors if I knew, for instance, that my doing so would mean extra rations or improved accommodations for someone I cared about.
Better yet-- decriminalize the act of leaving the silo. Make it known that it is likely a death sentence to leave, but make it a decision that can be freely entered into, and which the group will offer support for. Then, when the adventurer is ready to try his luck outside ask whether he would mind doing his community a much needed favor en route. Just a thought.
I just can't see how thinking that the silo society is deceiving itself would make a banished person want to clean the sensors. If anything it would seem to have the opposite effect. After all, by cleaning the sensors which display the false wasteland, the banished would be making himself complicit in this deception. If he refused to clean, on the other hand, he would be contributing the eventual black-out of the sensors which might lead people to lose their fear of the outside world and come join him in this paradise.
Yup, sorry, I can't get into a series with such a bullshit premise. And don't tell me that this is because it's the first of series. Wool was intended as a standalone so I don't see why I shouldn't evaluate it as such.
The twist struck me as convoluted and tacked-on. I'll grant that it was somewhat of a surprise (I worked it out before Holston, but not long before), but it just didn't make enough sense to stick with me. A good twist ending should see all the pieces finally falling into place in a way that makes you want to hit yourself for not seeing it all along. This one raised too many questions. Why did the silo society require a view of the outside so desperately if it was such a grim desolate place? Why did they insist that the work of cleaning sensors be done by the banished, when they appeared to have the technology for brief expeditions into the outside world (which without the fake visor images would have only served to further justify their practice of staying in the silo all of the time)? How exactly does the false image of paradise encourage people to clean the sensors? I can imagine that it might have that effect on some people, but it seems really odd that such a ploy would come up in a brain storming session on the issue. Much more effective would be finding some kind of leverage to bring to bear. It wouldn't even have to be a threat: If I was going to be banished into the wasteland either way, I would clean the sensors if I knew, for instance, that my doing so would mean extra rations or improved accommodations for someone I cared about.
Better yet-- decriminalize the act of leaving the silo. Make it known that it is likely a death sentence to leave, but make it a decision that can be freely entered into, and which the group will offer support for. Then, when the adventurer is ready to try his luck outside ask whether he would mind doing his community a much needed favor en route. Just a thought.
I just can't see how thinking that the silo society is deceiving itself would make a banished person want to clean the sensors. If anything it would seem to have the opposite effect. After all, by cleaning the sensors which display the false wasteland, the banished would be making himself complicit in this deception. If he refused to clean, on the other hand, he would be contributing the eventual black-out of the sensors which might lead people to lose their fear of the outside world and come join him in this paradise.
Yup, sorry, I can't get into a series with such a bullshit premise. And don't tell me that this is because it's the first of series. Wool was intended as a standalone so I don't see why I shouldn't evaluate it as such.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2015
Amazing
I'm lost for words...
This was good!
After Hunger Games and Uglies, I thought I'd never find a good dystopian book (no ladies and gentlemen, Divergent didn't make it up there). Yet I stumbled upon this one (thanks to GR friends of mine that I saw had given good ratings).
We saw a dystopian world, ascared terrified crowd, a manipulative goverment and a great an everlasting love. A love I might add that we saw from the end. I mean, it was already there when we started reading, we never saw it being born, yet it was not at all less powerful. We were provided with every detail of the emotional state of the MC and the journey that lead him there, all being presented exactly right.
The writing was very good and in every step of the way you were taking the path the author wanted you to. Like inception, he planted the idea and you just followed. You never knew more or less than what he wanted you to know. I was carried away actually feeling and thinking whatever he intended for me to feel and think. I applaud!
I do have some questions about the world building but it never bothered me while reading the book. Things just were like that, period. Only now, after finishing it do I think of them. Yet I cannot imagine what could be happening in the second book...
It's not long, actually like a mini story so read it. I mean it!
I'm lost for words...
This was good!
After Hunger Games and Uglies, I thought I'd never find a good dystopian book (no ladies and gentlemen, Divergent didn't make it up there). Yet I stumbled upon this one (thanks to GR friends of mine that I saw had given good ratings).
We saw a dystopian world, a
The writing was very good and in every step of the way you were taking the path the author wanted you to. Like inception, he planted the idea and you just followed. You never knew more or less than what he wanted you to know. I was carried away actually feeling and thinking whatever he intended for me to feel and think. I applaud!
I do have some questions about the world building but it never bothered me while reading the book. Things just were like that, period. Only now, after finishing it do I think of them. Yet I cannot imagine what could be happening in the second book...
It's not long, actually like a mini story so read it. I mean it!
April 17, 2018
5 stars
June 19, 2012
I want to go out. I want to go out. I wanttogoout.
4.5 stars. Holy _____ . You can choose which word to insert there but you might want to pick something much stronger than cow. Because the word I'm thinking is pretty strong with a lot of caps and exclamation points following it.
People (ahhh...yes, the very abstract and almost imaginary use of "people") have been telling me to read this short for a while now. I should have been listening sooner. Btw... Wool is a very condensed little read. It only took me about a half hour to get through the entire thing. It's worth the try (especially if you like dystopia) because there's no risk when something is this short. I'm tempted to jump right into Wool 2 but I can't right now.
Imagine being trapped in a silo, the rest of the outside world a complete mystery to you. Information is limited as to what's going on "out there." Your wife went crazy trying to figure it out. You feel like you're going crazy trying to know yourself.
Allison whispered something almost inaudible : "It's not real. Nothing you see is real."
Holston turned back to survey the muddy, lifeless landscape. It only looked depressing compared to scenes from the children's books.
"You okay?" Nelson asked. "Anything too tight?" Holston glanced around the airlock. My life is too tight, he wanted to say. My skin is too tight. The walls are too tight.
The animal part of his mind wasn't made for this, to be calmly ushered to a death it was perfectly aware of.
Yep. A lot happened in the span of a few pages. There is so much packed into such a little short. The ending was crazy. I honestly have no idea what's going to come next, so I'm very excited to get to the next installment as soon as possible!
November 16, 2015
Originally reviewed at Bookwraiths Reviews
This is the first “story” in the Wool Omnibus series that took the world by storm in 2011. At 49 pages long, the tale can be read in a single sitting, and more than likely you will do just that, because you will find yourself immediately getting sucked into this one from the first paragraph.
In this post apocalyptic world, a remnant of mankind lives in a giant circular silo. (It is never mentioned whether this is an old nuclear missile silo or not, but having spent too many hours watching the television show “Doomsday Preppers” that is how I envisioned this sanctuary.) No one is allowed outside. That is because outside lies quick death by toxic air.
Hidden in their small silo, the only view of the outside that these survivors are allowed is a large tv screen fed from several cameras outside. The only problem is that every so often the cameras need to be cleaned. But since no one can go outside and live, it presents somewhat of a dilemma until they come up with a novel solution: send condemned criminals outside to clean the cameras.
And Sheriff Holston never questioned this at all until . . . the day his precious wife Allison was sent outside. Ever since, he has wondered if she is really dead? Some part of him longing to believe the outside world is not devastated but habitable. The story of its toxicity just a falsehood to keep them entombed in their concrete and steel coffins. But the only way to be sure is to do the unthinkable: follow her outside!
This was one of those stories that lived up to its hype. Hugh Howey penned a clever, inventive story that took a standard post apocalyptic idea and turned it on its head. And I personally loved every minute of it and am looking forward to reading the omnibus soon to see how he can top this little jewel of a tale.
This is the first “story” in the Wool Omnibus series that took the world by storm in 2011. At 49 pages long, the tale can be read in a single sitting, and more than likely you will do just that, because you will find yourself immediately getting sucked into this one from the first paragraph.
In this post apocalyptic world, a remnant of mankind lives in a giant circular silo. (It is never mentioned whether this is an old nuclear missile silo or not, but having spent too many hours watching the television show “Doomsday Preppers” that is how I envisioned this sanctuary.) No one is allowed outside. That is because outside lies quick death by toxic air.
Hidden in their small silo, the only view of the outside that these survivors are allowed is a large tv screen fed from several cameras outside. The only problem is that every so often the cameras need to be cleaned. But since no one can go outside and live, it presents somewhat of a dilemma until they come up with a novel solution: send condemned criminals outside to clean the cameras.
And Sheriff Holston never questioned this at all until . . . the day his precious wife Allison was sent outside. Ever since, he has wondered if she is really dead? Some part of him longing to believe the outside world is not devastated but habitable. The story of its toxicity just a falsehood to keep them entombed in their concrete and steel coffins. But the only way to be sure is to do the unthinkable: follow her outside!
This was one of those stories that lived up to its hype. Hugh Howey penned a clever, inventive story that took a standard post apocalyptic idea and turned it on its head. And I personally loved every minute of it and am looking forward to reading the omnibus soon to see how he can top this little jewel of a tale.
August 7, 2018
3.5 stars
So, Wool by Hugh Howey took me completely by surprise in a good way. Knowing it was of the SciFi genre had me feeling hesitant, but hey I belong to a bookclub to stretch my boundaries and take me out of my reading comfort zone every now and then. I'd read only one review prior to starting and to say it was unfavourable is an understatement. Reluctantly I opened the book and I'm delighted to say my low expectations were almost immediately shattered. I'm not saying it's my favourite book ever, probably not even close, but the author did a great job. He delivered a highly readable, interesting and unique storyline. He didn't pull any punches when it came to killing off favourite characters so that I was kept guessing all the way through, there was a bit of mystery and suspense, and I'd have to say it's the first dystopian novel I've truly enjoyed.
Set some time in the future, we learn that all of humanity is housed in a silo below ground and that nobody can survive the toxic environment outside. Hence, the greatest punishment in the silo is to be sent cleaning the outside sensors. Nobody has ever survived so this is essentially a death sentence. Juliette, recently appointed Sherrif of the silo, faces a string of suspicious suicides amongst her colleagues and her investigations take her up against the villainous IT. In no time at all she too is set to cleaning and this is where things get interesting. People of the silo start asking questions and there is a sense that the community has had the wool pulled over their eyes by their leaders. What is really going on? Is the outside really as toxic as they've been lead to believe? Are there other living humans outside the confines of the silo?
Wool is the first book in the trilogy and I could easily continue. I may not, but that's only down to the ever increasing height of my Mt TBR and not through a kack of interest in what happens next.
So, Wool by Hugh Howey took me completely by surprise in a good way. Knowing it was of the SciFi genre had me feeling hesitant, but hey I belong to a bookclub to stretch my boundaries and take me out of my reading comfort zone every now and then. I'd read only one review prior to starting and to say it was unfavourable is an understatement. Reluctantly I opened the book and I'm delighted to say my low expectations were almost immediately shattered. I'm not saying it's my favourite book ever, probably not even close, but the author did a great job. He delivered a highly readable, interesting and unique storyline. He didn't pull any punches when it came to killing off favourite characters so that I was kept guessing all the way through, there was a bit of mystery and suspense, and I'd have to say it's the first dystopian novel I've truly enjoyed.
Set some time in the future, we learn that all of humanity is housed in a silo below ground and that nobody can survive the toxic environment outside. Hence, the greatest punishment in the silo is to be sent cleaning the outside sensors. Nobody has ever survived so this is essentially a death sentence. Juliette, recently appointed Sherrif of the silo, faces a string of suspicious suicides amongst her colleagues and her investigations take her up against the villainous IT. In no time at all she too is set to cleaning and this is where things get interesting. People of the silo start asking questions and there is a sense that the community has had the wool pulled over their eyes by their leaders. What is really going on? Is the outside really as toxic as they've been lead to believe? Are there other living humans outside the confines of the silo?
Wool is the first book in the trilogy and I could easily continue. I may not, but that's only down to the ever increasing height of my Mt TBR and not through a kack of interest in what happens next.
April 15, 2019
Wool was an incredibly short, but mind gripping and horrifying post-apocalyptic story about humans and survival at any cost!
Hugh Howey scored MAJOR points in my 'dystopia' appetite! I've been craving post-apocalyptic novels, ever since I've re-read Stephen King's earth shattering The Stand. Following my insatiable hunger for anything 'holy shit the world is over, now what?'- I got into the incredible Bird Box. I was thoroughly immersed in the post-disease/war world that theWool had to offer! Despite its abbreviated length, the narrative had me hooked due to the immediate strong characterization of key players and setting up a background that was both convincing and terrifying! The story interplays with human psychology, and how far we'll fight to survive as a species.
The premise of Wool is simple:
- whatever is left of humanity, take refuge in a 'silo'
- you go outside the silo... you die!
That's it ladies and gents...I ain't spoiling anything about this gem of a story! Rest assured your heart rate will prob reach 120s, and the funny thing, is that you'll be sitting in a couch reading...
5 Stars
Hugh Howey scored MAJOR points in my 'dystopia' appetite! I've been craving post-apocalyptic novels, ever since I've re-read Stephen King's earth shattering The Stand. Following my insatiable hunger for anything 'holy shit the world is over, now what?'- I got into the incredible Bird Box. I was thoroughly immersed in the post-disease/war world that theWool had to offer! Despite its abbreviated length, the narrative had me hooked due to the immediate strong characterization of key players and setting up a background that was both convincing and terrifying! The story interplays with human psychology, and how far we'll fight to survive as a species.
The premise of Wool is simple:
- whatever is left of humanity, take refuge in a 'silo'
- you go outside the silo... you die!
That's it ladies and gents...I ain't spoiling anything about this gem of a story! Rest assured your heart rate will prob reach 120s, and the funny thing, is that you'll be sitting in a couch reading...
5 Stars
April 18, 2019
2,340 Amazon reviews (94% 4 and 5-star reviews)
58 pages, but a good sci-fi short story. Everyone lives in a silo in a post-apocalyptic world and periodically someone has to go outside on a suicide mission of cleaning the lenses. Surprising everyone, the Sheriff volunteers. Hard to say much without giving it away, but it is such a short read, it is interesting, and it gives you a taste of the series if you want to follow up Book 1. This is the lead into the series which I have not read, but will. It was pretty good.
Note: the full-length Wool 540 pages have 13,7800 Amazon reviews (93% are 4 and 5-star reviews) I have not read this one yet. The series has 5 books.
58 pages, but a good sci-fi short story. Everyone lives in a silo in a post-apocalyptic world and periodically someone has to go outside on a suicide mission of cleaning the lenses. Surprising everyone, the Sheriff volunteers. Hard to say much without giving it away, but it is such a short read, it is interesting, and it gives you a taste of the series if you want to follow up Book 1. This is the lead into the series which I have not read, but will. It was pretty good.
Note: the full-length Wool 540 pages have 13,7800 Amazon reviews (93% are 4 and 5-star reviews) I have not read this one yet. The series has 5 books.
September 15, 2013
Going into this, I knew this novella was meant to hook the reader into the Wool series. The writing is fine, well edited and clear, but doesn't have the richness or depth to earn 4 or even 3 stars.
Two main characters are introduced, Sheriff Holston and his wife. Oftentimes characters are what draws a reader into a series. Time and effort are invested by writer and readers, and, hopefully, attachments are formed enough to carry the story forward. In this case, I haven't that sense of attachment or wanting to move forward, mainly because - which can work for a standalone short story, but not a novel series. Again, 3 stars for character development - they were nice enough.
So, how about the world building? Generations of people exist in an underground silo. While underground worlds aren't new, they aren't plentiful either, so I was intrigued. World building is challenging, and not as easy as one might think. China Miéville is great at it. George R.R. Martin and Cormac McCarthy both come to mind. The underground world in Wool is less richly drawn. Perhaps the novella format is the limiting factor, but the right vocabulary can pack powerful punches in short order. So, for the world ambiance, Wool was okay -- 2.5 stars.
The theme has potential -- ideas about society, government, beliefs. I know the wool is being pulled over the population's eyes, but by whom and for what reason are leads for a good story. When it comes down to it, I found myself simply unmotivated to pursue them. Why? Something was missing. I should be one or more of these: 1) emotionally entangled 2) intellectually curious, or 3) in love with the prose. Because I'm none of the above, I have to rate this 2 stars, which is not a dig, but it was okay, without an exclamation mark.
Two main characters are introduced, Sheriff Holston and his wife. Oftentimes characters are what draws a reader into a series. Time and effort are invested by writer and readers, and, hopefully, attachments are formed enough to carry the story forward. In this case, I haven't that sense of attachment or wanting to move forward, mainly because - which can work for a standalone short story, but not a novel series. Again, 3 stars for character development - they were nice enough.
So, how about the world building? Generations of people exist in an underground silo. While underground worlds aren't new, they aren't plentiful either, so I was intrigued. World building is challenging, and not as easy as one might think. China Miéville is great at it. George R.R. Martin and Cormac McCarthy both come to mind. The underground world in Wool is less richly drawn. Perhaps the novella format is the limiting factor, but the right vocabulary can pack powerful punches in short order. So, for the world ambiance, Wool was okay -- 2.5 stars.
The theme has potential -- ideas about society, government, beliefs. I know the wool is being pulled over the population's eyes, but by whom and for what reason are leads for a good story. When it comes down to it, I found myself simply unmotivated to pursue them. Why? Something was missing. I should be one or more of these: 1) emotionally entangled 2) intellectually curious, or 3) in love with the prose. Because I'm none of the above, I have to rate this 2 stars, which is not a dig, but it was okay, without an exclamation mark.
Want to read
March 1, 2012First three installments of this dystopian series are FREE today for Kindle. Fantastic reviews and ratings for this author, sounds like it's worth checking out!
Thanks to Michelle for the nudge. :)
Thanks to Michelle for the nudge. :)
April 22, 2014
Most refreshing to find a dystopian tale that is not YA. This one grabbed my attention right away, and I have already purchased the omnibus. Interest officially piqued!
February 20, 2024
For such a short story, it certainly packs quite a punch and a lot of suspense. Though the buildup was slow, I was deeply invested in the story by the end. The eerie desperation of the dystopia was conveyed well.
October 14, 2019
Wool (Wool, #1), Hugh Howey
تاریخ نخستین خوانش: روز دوم ژانویه سال 2017 میلادی
عنوان: سراب؛ نویسنده: هیو هاوی؛ مترجم: آیدا کشوری؛ ویراستار: نیما کهندانی؛ تهران، آذرباد، 1393، در 500 ص؛ از سه گانه سیلو کتاب اول؛ شابک دوره: 9786006225531؛ شابک کتاب اول: 9786006225548؛
تاریخ نخستین خوانش: روز دوم ژانویه سال 2017 میلادی
عنوان: سراب؛ نویسنده: هیو هاوی؛ مترجم: آیدا کشوری؛ ویراستار: نیما کهندانی؛ تهران، آذرباد، 1393، در 500 ص؛ از سه گانه سیلو کتاب اول؛ شابک دوره: 9786006225531؛ شابک کتاب اول: 9786006225548؛
March 4, 2012
3.5 stars. This short story would make a great episode of The Twilight Zone. Set in a post-apocalyptic and uninhabitable world where the survivors live in an underground missile silo, criminals are sent outside to clean the sensors and cameras so everyone inside can continue to see what's out there. They are also supposedly sent to their deaths due to the toxic air, but no one really knows because they never come back. It's a wonder they actually complete their cleanings before going off over the hill, but somehow, they always do.
Three years ago, Sheriff Holston's wife dug up some things from deleted computer files that led her to believe that they haven't been told the truth about the outside from their leaders, and expressed the one thing that would immediately evict her from their society - her desire to go outside. So, Sheriff Holston watched her leave and hoped she'd return for him as she promised. But, she didn't, and so Sheriff Holston decides it's time for him to follow her.
I won't spoil it for you, but the author certainly keeps you guessing on what happens to him. This short story is well worth it for $.99 on the Kindle!
Three years ago, Sheriff Holston's wife dug up some things from deleted computer files that led her to believe that they haven't been told the truth about the outside from their leaders, and expressed the one thing that would immediately evict her from their society - her desire to go outside. So, Sheriff Holston watched her leave and hoped she'd return for him as she promised. But, she didn't, and so Sheriff Holston decides it's time for him to follow her.
I won't spoil it for you, but the author certainly keeps you guessing on what happens to him. This short story is well worth it for $.99 on the Kindle!
June 11, 2012
Whoa.... (Imagine that a deeply shocked, whoa...)
I had no idea that a short could make me feel like that...
How can a book you can read in a 1/2 hour really make you feel such strong emotion?
I used to think that reader/character connection comes from page count. I mean, how else are you going to find enough time to really know who they are and connect to them on that certain level? Sometimes it does, depending on what the author is trying to overcome, (See Dan & Vadim). Well, I've come to realize that other times all it takes is a really great writer. Hugh Howey isn't the only one I've read and liked this much, Jordan Castillo Price is another. These people know how to write a short that still packs a punch.
What a story. If it was standalone, I'd still be seriously impressed. It's not, there are sequels. That's even better, because I need to know more. I want to know why!
I had no idea that a short could make me feel like that...
How can a book you can read in a 1/2 hour really make you feel such strong emotion?
I used to think that reader/character connection comes from page count. I mean, how else are you going to find enough time to really know who they are and connect to them on that certain level? Sometimes it does, depending on what the author is trying to overcome, (See Dan & Vadim). Well, I've come to realize that other times all it takes is a really great writer. Hugh Howey isn't the only one I've read and liked this much, Jordan Castillo Price is another. These people know how to write a short that still packs a punch.
What a story. If it was standalone, I'd still be seriously impressed. It's not, there are sequels. That's even better, because I need to know more. I want to know why!
January 1, 2013
Great little story that I suspect will stick with me for a while. It was hard while reading it not to get too caught up in a guessing game about how things would unfold. The writing style is nicely descriptive and the story itself is engaging and memorable. Highly recommended.
Memorability Factor: 9/10
::::::::::::::::UPDATE:::::::::::::::::::::::
This turned out to be one of my favorite reads of 2012. The are currently running an art contest on Facebook for art made by fans, inspired by WOOL. No I am not going to be spammy and seek votes, but I thought it would be fun to include the pictures here.
If you haven't read this yet, I suggest you get on it already.
February 26, 2017
4.5 stars.
This short little novella is a quick read with a steady build up of suspense. I audibly gasped a few times at the turns it took. I look forward to the rest of the series.
This short little novella is a quick read with a steady build up of suspense. I audibly gasped a few times at the turns it took. I look forward to the rest of the series.
January 26, 2023
Interesante relato corto que se me hizo tan corto que me deja con ganas de más.
Esta claro que quiero respuestas y por lo tanto seguiré con la serie de relatos que la componen.
Sinopsis: Los últimos seres humanos viven en el silo, una prisión subterránea que ellos mismos han construido. Desde allí pueden ver el exterior, una imagen pixelada del mundo devastado y contaminado que han heredado de sus antepasados. Pero esta visión que ofrecen las cámaras del silo se va degradando poco a poco, cubierta por los vientos tóxicos que matarían en pocos minutos a cualquiera lo suficientemente loco para salir al exterior.
Sólo hay un modo de que los habitantes del silo disfruten de una imagen clara del exterior: que envíen a alguien a la limpieza, la pena capital para todo aquel que quebrante las leyes del silo. Todos los condenados amenazan con no limpiar las cámaras pero todos acaban empleando sus últimos minutos de vida en llevar a cabo esta tarea. ¿Qué les empuja a hacerlo? El sheriff Holston siempre se ha hecho esa pregunta. Ahora está a punto de conocer la respuesta.
#1- Un libro escrito durante el NaNoWriMo (acrónimo de National Novel Writing Month). Reto Popsugar 2023
Esta claro que quiero respuestas y por lo tanto seguiré con la serie de relatos que la componen.
Sinopsis: Los últimos seres humanos viven en el silo, una prisión subterránea que ellos mismos han construido. Desde allí pueden ver el exterior, una imagen pixelada del mundo devastado y contaminado que han heredado de sus antepasados. Pero esta visión que ofrecen las cámaras del silo se va degradando poco a poco, cubierta por los vientos tóxicos que matarían en pocos minutos a cualquiera lo suficientemente loco para salir al exterior.
Sólo hay un modo de que los habitantes del silo disfruten de una imagen clara del exterior: que envíen a alguien a la limpieza, la pena capital para todo aquel que quebrante las leyes del silo. Todos los condenados amenazan con no limpiar las cámaras pero todos acaban empleando sus últimos minutos de vida en llevar a cabo esta tarea. ¿Qué les empuja a hacerlo? El sheriff Holston siempre se ha hecho esa pregunta. Ahora está a punto de conocer la respuesta.
#1- Un libro escrito durante el NaNoWriMo (acrónimo de National Novel Writing Month). Reto Popsugar 2023
November 13, 2012
The absolute best in apocalyptic short stories! Dystopian, post-apocalyptic, horror - take your pick, this little tale covers it all. I would LOVE to see more from this author, and from this scary, scary world!
**Edit & update - There IS more! I've picked up WOOL 2, 3, & 4, and Mr. Howey informs me WOOL 5 should be out sometime in February. Go now, my pretties, and pick up tales 1-4. The Genius demands it!
**Edit & update - There IS more! I've picked up WOOL 2, 3, & 4, and Mr. Howey informs me WOOL 5 should be out sometime in February. Go now, my pretties, and pick up tales 1-4. The Genius demands it!
May 24, 2014
Well, I won't be continuing this series after becoming privy to some information I had no knowledge of before.
It's really too bad, because this is a series I would have enjoyed. But, at this very moment after reading a certain blog, this is now how I feel:
It's really too bad, because this is a series I would have enjoyed. But, at this very moment after reading a certain blog, this is now how I feel:
September 19, 2021
Maybe it should be titled "Goldfish"
Does a pet goldfish ever wonder what life is like outside the bowl? It swims around in its little glass prison, constantly exposed to its view of outside – watching us perform our daily routine. Does it know that being “outside” means agonising death by suffocation? Or being eaten by one of the other family pets? Or being squished by a size 10 Rockport? Such is life for the poor occupants of Silo 18.
I don’t really think I would cast this book in the pile I really like. Maybe I’ve wandered too far from my favourite genre. Perhaps there were deep meanings that went straight over my head. I struggled to get through it, but parts of it were gripping, just not much. I'm not really sure why this book didn't appeal to me. I know Hugh has written stuff I like - for example: Beacon 23
There was a lot that just seemed wrong to me somehow. Like starting the Wool trilogy in the middle, and then writing a prequel and a sequel. If I were you, I’d start at Book 2 – not that I’ll ever read Book 2 – I won’t – but at least it might have made more sense, chronologically speaking. The whole concept just didn't gel for me: what logical reason would there be for a large, well-capitalised bunch of people to wipe out the world’s population and stick the chosen few in underground silos, only to have to wait hundreds, perhaps thousands, of years before the world was habitable again? And then have to start from scratch. No thanks. And the title..."Wool". Huh?! Why name the book after such an insignificantly teeny weeny thing – the thing they cleaned their camera lenses with. Did I miss something?
Look, if you’re a big fan of dystopian worlds, you might like this, but for me, I like the characters to actually interact much more with their dystopia than this, and not be cooped up in a goldfish bowl version of our current world.
Does a pet goldfish ever wonder what life is like outside the bowl? It swims around in its little glass prison, constantly exposed to its view of outside – watching us perform our daily routine. Does it know that being “outside” means agonising death by suffocation? Or being eaten by one of the other family pets? Or being squished by a size 10 Rockport? Such is life for the poor occupants of Silo 18.
I don’t really think I would cast this book in the pile I really like. Maybe I’ve wandered too far from my favourite genre. Perhaps there were deep meanings that went straight over my head. I struggled to get through it, but parts of it were gripping, just not much. I'm not really sure why this book didn't appeal to me. I know Hugh has written stuff I like - for example: Beacon 23
There was a lot that just seemed wrong to me somehow. Like starting the Wool trilogy in the middle, and then writing a prequel and a sequel. If I were you, I’d start at Book 2 – not that I’ll ever read Book 2 – I won’t – but at least it might have made more sense, chronologically speaking. The whole concept just didn't gel for me: what logical reason would there be for a large, well-capitalised bunch of people to wipe out the world’s population and stick the chosen few in underground silos, only to have to wait hundreds, perhaps thousands, of years before the world was habitable again? And then have to start from scratch. No thanks. And the title..."Wool". Huh?! Why name the book after such an insignificantly teeny weeny thing – the thing they cleaned their camera lenses with. Did I miss something?
Look, if you’re a big fan of dystopian worlds, you might like this, but for me, I like the characters to actually interact much more with their dystopia than this, and not be cooped up in a goldfish bowl version of our current world.
March 14, 2012
I read this novella for two reasons. First, Michelle's review and second, because the ebook was offered for free from Amazon. I am so glad for these nudges because the book was a lot of fun. The kind of fun that only a decent post-apoc and creepy dystopian story can deliver. One of my favorite kinds of literary fun.
The set up to the story is simple as the novella is only 59 pages. It is told from the point of view of one character - -both in the present time of the story and through brief flashbacks to three years earlier. I do not want to give anything away; the story is dystopian (taking place in a very limited society after a post-apoc event) so readers can assume there will be a delightful twist at the end. And there was a twist, actually there were a few of them.
This is a quick read due to both its length and the fast pace of the text. If you enjoy this genre, I think you will enjoy this novella. I plan to read #2.
The set up to the story is simple as the novella is only 59 pages. It is told from the point of view of one character - -both in the present time of the story and through brief flashbacks to three years earlier. I do not want to give anything away; the story is dystopian (taking place in a very limited society after a post-apoc event) so readers can assume there will be a delightful twist at the end. And there was a twist, actually there were a few of them.
This is a quick read due to both its length and the fast pace of the text. If you enjoy this genre, I think you will enjoy this novella. I plan to read #2.
April 28, 2019
2,7/5
The first installment only had 50 pages so maybe that’s why it seems that almost the whole book erased from my memory as soon as I’ve finished it. Maybe. The premise was interesting enough for me to keep the second book on my TBR but I’m definitely not expecting huge things from this series.
The first installment only had 50 pages so maybe that’s why it seems that almost the whole book erased from my memory as soon as I’ve finished it. Maybe. The premise was interesting enough for me to keep the second book on my TBR but I’m definitely not expecting huge things from this series.
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