Released: 17th August 2013
Genre: Post-Apocalyptic, Science-Fiction
Number of Pages: 401
Hugh Howey’s Silo trilogy struck a chord with many fans of the science fiction genre, gradually being released as larger anthologies for ease of access. This post-apocalyptic tale comes to an end in Dust, which takes on a more nuanced and thoughtful tone.
Picking up where Shift left off, Dust takes place entirely in the present day as tensions reach a boiling point in the underground bunkers. Initially we follow Juliette Nichols in Silo 18, the younger generation she saved in Silo 17 and other surviving characters as they plot a course towards the ultimate perpetrators in Silo 1. They do so by utilising a large drill that can penetrate the neighbouring structures without breaching the toxic surface. Juliette has become a reluctant leader, being the only human who has returned from cleaning above ground. This side of the narrative swaps between the embattled mayor and other faces like Elise and Solo. The bonds between the characters are stronger than ever with a particularly devastating loss that occurs early in the plot.
On the other side, we have Donald and his sister Charlotte in Silo 1, who desperately try to reveal the truth to neighbouring silos before further tragedies unfold. Having been alive from the start of the apocalypse, this thread focuses heavily on a sense of weary remorse, especially when the siblings go up against Thurman, the ruthless leader of the authoritarian bunker. One of the key themes throughout the book is a sense of guilt that weighs heavily on the characters. Juliette feels an immense pressure over the people she protects and Donald is endlessly downcast over the actions that weren’t taken to prevent the destruction of the world.
Despite the build-up over the last two books, Dust doesn’t culminate in an epic final showdown; the characters and their respective factions are in no shape to do that. The only real downside to this final chapter is the antagonist; Thurman doesn’t play a major role in the story and isn’t seen much until the climax, making him rather underdeveloped.
Recommended?
YES: Dust is an effective and conclusive third chapter in the Silo trilogy, though you shouldn’t expect a climatic battle between the two sides. Howey sidesteps traditional beats and focuses on a feeling of misunderstanding and the need to move forward as a group rather than seeking revenge. With plenty of inward-facing reflections and an ever-growing sense of loss, this final effort has the biggest heart.
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