The Kraken Wakes – Summary
“The Kraken Wakes” is a gripping science fiction novel that chronicles humanity’s struggle against a mysterious alien invasion from the depths of the ocean. The story unfolds through the eyes of Mike and Phyllis Watson, a married couple working as radio journalists for the English Broadcasting Company (EBC).
The narrative is divided into three distinct phases:
Phase One begins when fireballs are observed crashing into the deepest parts of the world’s oceans. Initially dismissed as a curiosity, the situation takes a sinister turn as ships begin to disappear mysteriously. The couple witnesses some of these events first-hand during their honeymoon cruise.
In Phase Two, the alien presence becomes more overt and aggressive. Strange biological constructs, dubbed “sea tanks”, emerge from the oceans to attack coastal towns and cities. These entities, along with jellyfish-like creatures, begin abducting humans.
Phase Three marks the aliens’ endgame. They initiate a catastrophic melting of the polar ice caps, causing sea levels to rise dramatically. This leads to widespread flooding, including parts of London, and pushes humanity to the brink of collapse.
Throughout the novel, Wyndham explores themes of human resilience, governmental short-sightedness and the fragility of civilisation. The story is punctuated by the insightful but often dismissed warnings of Professor Alastair Bocker, who correctly interprets the nature of the threat.
Wyndham’s narrative style blends tension, horror and occasional humour, creating a uniquely British take on the alien invasion trope. The novel stands out for never revealing the aliens themselves, leaving their nature and motivations a mystery that adds to the overall sense of dread.
Key themes:
- Environmental destruction and climate change
- Social disintegration in the face of crisis
- Media’s role in shaping public perception
- Government inefficiency and short-sightedness
- Human resilience and adaptability
Character Details
Mike Watson
Mike Watson is one of the main protagonists and the narrator of “The Kraken Wakes”. He works as a radio journalist for the English Broadcasting Company (EBC), which puts him in a unique position to witness and report on the unfolding alien invasion. Mike is characterised by his sharp wit, curiosity, and ability to maintain a level head in crisis situations. His profession allows him to be present at key events and privy to important information, making him an ideal narrator for the story. Mike’s relationship with his wife and colleague, Phyllis, is a central aspect of his character, showcasing their teamwork and mutual support throughout the escalating global disaster.
Phyllis Watson
Phyllis Watson is Mike’s wife and fellow EBC journalist. She is portrayed as a capable, resourceful and brave woman with a full-time career, which was somewhat unusual for female characters in 1950s literature. Phyllis is an equal partner to Mike in both their personal and professional lives, often demonstrating quick thinking and adaptability in dangerous situations. Her character adds depth to the narrative, providing both emotional support to Mike and valuable insights into the unfolding events. The couple’s witty banter and terms of endearment, while occasionally bordering on saccharine, serve to humanise them amidst the growing chaos.
Professor Alastair Bocker
Professor Alastair Bocker is the novel’s primary scientific authority and voice of reason. He is the only character who accurately interprets the nature of the underwater threat from the beginning. Bocker is characterised by his clear-mindedness and foresight, often providing brutally honest assessments of the situation that alienate him from others. His role in the story is crucial, as he serves as a source of exposition and scientific explanation for the alien phenomena. Despite facing ridicule and dismissal from government officials and fellow scientists, Bocker persists in his warnings and theories, ultimately being proven correct as events unfold.
Reader Fit
“The Kraken Wakes” would appeal to a wide range of readers, particularly those interested in classic science fiction, apocalyptic scenarios, and climate fiction. Fans of John Wyndham’s other works, such as “The Day of the Triffids”, will appreciate his unique blend of speculative fiction and social commentary. The novel’s exploration of human responses to global catastrophe makes it relevant to modern readers concerned with climate change and societal resilience.
Readers who enjoy narratives that gradually build tension and those who appreciate stories where the threat remains largely unseen will find this book engaging. The novel’s British setting and sensibilities may particularly appeal to fans of UK science fiction.
Additionally, those interested in Cold War-era literature will find the book’s portrayal of international tensions and media dynamics intriguing. The novel’s prescient themes regarding climate change and governmental responses to global threats make it a thought-provoking read for those interested in the intersection of science fiction and current affairs.
Quick Facts
- Genre: Science Fiction, Apocalyptic Fiction
- Publication Year: 1953
- Reading Time Estimate: 8-10 hours (based on average reading speed)
- Notable Awards: None specifically mentioned for this book
Related Books
- “The Day of the Triffids” by John Wyndham
- “The War of the Worlds” by H.G. Wells
- “The Midwich Cuckoos” by John Wyndham
