John Christopher

The Death of Grass [No Blade of Grass]

The Death of Grass, authored by John Christopher (pseudonym of Christopher Samuel Youd) and published in 1956, is a chilling and prescient work of dystopian fiction. Set in a world gripped by a catastrophic agricultural disaster, the novel delves into the harrowing consequences of a deadly virus that devastates grasses, decimating the global food chain. Original first edition published in the U.K. The first U.S. edition was published the same year but with a different title, No Blades of Grass. Octavo, black cloth boards with white lettering on spine.

Hardcover. First Edition, First Printing. Octavo, cloth boards with white lettering on spine. London: Michael Joseph, 1956. Pringle, Science Fiction: The 100 Best Novels (21). #10608.
Light foxing and dust soiling to page edges, else fine in fine dust jacket with touch of fading to spine. Sharp copy.

John Christopher Books-to-Film Dystopian Pandemic Post-Apocalyptic Science Fiction

Additional Details
The Death of Grass by John Christopher (pseudonym of Christopher Samuel Youd) was published in 1956. It is a post-apocalyptic, dystopian novel about a virus that kills all forms of grass, including rice and wheat, and quickly spreads across the globe causing a world catastrophe.

The story revolves around John Custance, the protagonist, and his close friend, Roger Buckley, and their families. They attempt to flea London on foot and make their way to the safety of John’s brother’s farm located in a remote Westmorland valley, where they believe they can hole up and weather the impending crisis.

As the group journeys across England, social order starts to break down, and they must grapple with the alarming reality of a world facing starvation and societal collapse. Faced with dwindling supplies and escalating lawlessness, John and Roger must resort to violence and harsh tactics to stay alive and protect their families.

The novel serves as a haunting warning about the fragility of civilization and the delicate balance that sustains human existence. The novel's portrayal of social breakdown, desperation, and moral dilemmas resonates with contemporary concerns about resource scarcity and the potential consequences of environmental disruption. Through its gritty depiction of a world in chaos, the novel prompts readers to reflect on the ethical quandaries that arise when survival instincts clash with societal norms.

Later works by other writers that explore similar themes include High Rise by J. G. Ballard and The Road by Cormac McCarthy. Filmed in 1970 as No Blade of Grass.