The Carhullan Army by Sarah Hall

In a dystopian future, England has been devastated by economic collapse and climate change, and is now under the control of an authoritarian regime. The protagonist, known only as Sister, escapes from her life of forced labor and her loveless marriage to join a self-sustaining, all-female community in the remote hills of Cumbria. This community, known as the Carhullan Army, trains rigorously in both survival skills and combat, preparing for a rebellion against the oppressive government. Sister's life in the community and her eventual rise to leadership form the core of the story, which explores themes of freedom, gender, and the human spirit's resistance to tyranny.

The 10033rd greatest book of all time


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Total Points: 9

Since this book was first published in 2007, there is a penalty of 52.8%. The age adjusted score is 4.25.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.