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5.0 

The Survivors

By Tom Godwin & C. S. Bleecker
The Survivors by Tom Godwin & C. S. Bleecker digital book - Fable

Publisher Description

A brutal world. A stranded people. A fight across generations to survive.

First published in 1958, The Survivors by Tom Godwin-also known as Space Prison-is a landmark survivalist science fiction novel. When a civilian transport ship is sabotaged during an interstellar war, its passengers are abandoned on the deadly planet Ragnarok: a place of crushing gravity, lethal predators, and no hope of rescue.

Stripped of technology and resources, the survivors-men, women, and children-must build a new civilization from nothing. Over three generations, they endure unimaginable hardship, forge new tools, and evolve into something more than human: a society born in pain, trained by necessity, and destined for revenge.

Told in a clear, unflinching voice, The Survivors is both a gripping adventure and a profound meditation on human resilience. It asks not whether humanity can survive, but what it must become to do so.

This restored edition, edited by C.S. Bleecker, includes thoughtful formatting and editorial guidance. With credits to Greg Weeks, Joel Schlosberg, and Szymon Szott, this release revives a powerful sci-fi classic for new readers and collectors alike.

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The Survivors Reviews

5.0
“Upon discovering an audiobook of "Prison Planet" by Tom Godwin on YouTube, I was plunged into a world that seemed to mirror many of the doubts and fears I've grappled with in my own life. The tale is more than just a narrative of survival against the odds; it speaks profoundly of the human spirit's struggle with the torment of unrealized dreams and the reconciliation of one's purpose beyond the confines of a lifetime. Throughout the story, the characters on Ragnarok face decisions that push them to the brink of despair. Their initial hopes of survival and revenge against their Gern captors are consistently dashed by the harsh reality of their environment and circumstances. As they navigate deadly fauna, a merciless climate, and a relentless disease, they grapple with a painful truth: many of their dreams and aspirations will remain unfulfilled within their lifetimes. Yet, it's this very realization that propels them forward with even greater purpose. Understanding that they may never see the fruits of their labor, they dedicate themselves to ensuring that their descendants have the knowledge, tools, and resolve to achieve what the previous generation couldn't. It's a testament to the selfless nature of the human spirit, willing to sacrifice personal desires for the betterment of those who come after. This resonates deeply with me, especially when paralleled with Tom Godwin's own life. Despite his tragic end, lying alone in a Nevada hospital after a life filed with grief and alcoholism, his literary legacy has lived on, inspiring countless readers, including myself. His story serves as a stark reminder that while our time might be limited, the impact of our deeds can reverberate through the ages. In my own introspection, I've often been haunted by the fear of ending up like Godwin, isolated and seemingly defeated by life. But his enduring influence highlights a crucial lesson: it's not about the duration of our existence but the depth of our impact. I've come to understand that it's not solely about personal accomplishments but more about what we leave behind for others. As I navigate my own life's challenges, "Prison Planet" serves as a beacon. It reminds me that while I might grapple with doubts and fears, it's essential to shift focus from personal apprehensions to the broader picture of laying foundations for future generations. Just as the characters in the story realized their purpose extended beyond their lifetimes, I too must come to terms with my role in this vast tapestry of existence, prioritizing legacy over fleeting aspirations.”

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