When the Tripods Came cover art

When the Tripods Came

Tripods Series Prequel (Book 4)

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When the Tripods Came

By: John Christopher
Narrated by: William Gaminara
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About this listen

The story of The Tripods was the basis of a popular BBC television series in the 1980s, in which humanity has been conquered and enslaved by "the tripods", unseen alien entities that travel about in gigantic three-legged walking machines. Humans are controlled from the age of 14 by implants called "caps", which suppress curiosity and creativity and leave recipients placid and docile, incapable of dissent.

In this first instalment of the classic book that inspired the series, 14-year-old Laurie and his family attempt to flee England when the Tripods descend from outer space.

©1988 Samuel Youd (P)2011 Audible Ltd Science Fiction & Fantasy

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This was a great book, I listened to it again and again and again and again and again.

the Tripods

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Interesting after novel, telling the story of the tripods arrival. Sort of works, but not really a patch on the original trilogy. I think I would of expanded the originals in a rework, and adding in some of this material, rather than produce a whole new novel. But, overall, it's not too bad.

OK, not as good as the trilogy, but some good ideas.

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links in perfectly for the white mountain book 1 of the original tripod trilogy. Unlike many prequels this flowed naturally and could easily have been the original tripod story

The beginning of the end

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As someone who watched the Tripod series back in the 80s, and then read the books, I found this to be very entertaining.

A very enjoyable listen.

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This is mediocre book, and sadly nowhere near the standard of the original Trilogy. You don't gain much insight, if any, by reading it. It only slightly elaborates on things that were actually best left hinted at in the Trilogy. Some character's are shallow and pointless and the whole book just feels like a bit of an afterthought, trying to make a little go a long way. I prefer to think of the Tripods as just a Trilogy, without a prequel.

'Tacked on' to the Trilogy

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This really triggers nostalgia. Loved it. Life has changed so much since then. Worris now are much the same as then though, the unknown still brings nightmares. Listen with the light off.

Classic British Sci-fi.

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What a superb story! I do wish this story was followed up! I want to know what happened to everyone! What a wonderful way to spend a sunny summer afternoon listening to a story and the words used!! 👍

Echoes of Will Henry and Beanpole!

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