2. Daybreak 2250 AD
Published:1952
Author: Andre Norton
Awards: N/A
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Also known as Star Man’s Son, this novel is regarded as being seminal for its development of the ‘quest through the post-apocalyptic landscape’ theme, which has been endlessly reiterated in the sub-genre. Defying all reason, it remains largely unknown.
1. The Day Of The Triffids
Published: 1951
Author: John Wyndham
Awards: N/A
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The Day Of The Triffids remains John Wyndham’s best known novel, and also his breakthrough release. It has been consistently referenced and parodied since its release, and had an indelible impact on the sub-genre, and propagates the ‘cosy catastrophe’ scenario.
Honourable mentions: Mary Shelley, The Last Man – Stephen King, The Stand – David Palmer, Emergence – Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle, Lucifer’s Hammer – Terry Brooks, The Genesis Of Shannara series.