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  • Title: City at World’s End
  • Author: Edmond Hamilton
  • Narrator: Mark Nelson
  • Length: 07:08:00
  • Version: Abridged
  • Release Date: 01/01/2011
  • Publisher: LibriVox
  • Genre: Science Fiction & Fantasy, Science Fiction
  • ISBN13: SABFAB9780842
Dear fellow adventurers and lovers of the unknown,

When I first pressed play on Edmond Hamilton’s *City at World’s End*, narrated by Mark Nelson, I was instantly transported. It wasn’t just the story that captivated me, but the way Nelson’s voice carried me through this post-apocalyptic journey, much like the way the Atacama Desert’s vast emptiness once framed my experience with *One Hundred Years of Solitude*. The audiobook experience felt like sitting with that wise grandmother in Oaxaca, her stories weaving magic in the twilight.

Hamilton’s *City at World’s End* is a classic science fiction tale that delves deep into the human psyche when faced with the unimaginable. The story begins with the sudden and unexpected nuclear war that propels the small Midwestern town of Middletown, Ohio, millions of years into the future. This time displacement serves as a backdrop for exploring themes of survival, adaptation, and societal evolution.

Mark Nelson’s narration is a perfect match for Hamilton’s imaginative storytelling. His voice, steady and evocative, captures the essence of each character and the tension of their predicament. You can almost feel the disorientation of the townsfolk as they grapple with their new reality. Nelson’s pacing is impeccable, allowing the listener to fully immerse themselves in the narrative without feeling rushed.

One of the most striking aspects of this audiobook is its ability to balance the scientific speculation with the emotional journey of its characters. Hamilton doesn’t just focus on the technological advancements of the future society but also on how these advancements clash with the values and beliefs of the displaced humans. This cultural clash is brought to life through Nelson’s nuanced performance, making it a truly immersive listening experience.

Listening to *City at World’s End*, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to other works in the genre. It reminded me of H.G. Wells’ *The Time Machine* with its exploration of societal evolution over vast stretches of time. Yet, Hamilton’s unique twist of combining nuclear apocalypse with time displacement offers a fresh perspective on the long-term consequences of human actions.

The audiobook’s strengths lie in its world-building and thought-provoking themes. However, it’s worth noting that some aspects of the story may feel dated by modern standards. The science, while imaginative for its time, might not hold up to today’s scrutiny. But this is a minor quibble in an otherwise compelling narrative.

For those who enjoy post-apocalyptic fiction, *City at World’s End* is a must-listen. It’s a story that not only entertains but also prompts reflection on our own societal norms and the potential paths of human progress. And the fact that it’s available as a free audiobook makes it even more accessible.

As I reached the end of the audiobook, I found myself reflecting on the resilience of the human spirit, much like I did after those storytelling evenings in Oaxaca. Hamilton’s tale, brought to life by Nelson’s narration, is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling to explore the depths of human experience.

So, whether you’re a seasoned science fiction enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, I highly recommend giving *City at World’s End* a listen. It’s a journey through time and human resilience that will stay with you long after the final chapter.

With wanderlust and wonder, Marcus Rivera
Marcus Rivera