Okay full disclosure. I read this book about ten years ago. I had to go find the Wikipedia summary to remind myself what happens because "essentially the Stand but with less creepy sex talk like 'after love' and fewer references to urine and/or feces" doesn't really seem like an adequate review.

So this is essentially The Stand but with less creepy sex talk like 'after love' and fewer references to urine and/or feces.

I kid, I kid.

Kind of.

The similarities to The Stand are pretty damn striking. Though nuclear holocaust takes the place of Captain Tripps, there's enough really icky facial tumors to rival tube neck in terms of overt grossness.

In the midst of the fallout, two stories begin to unfold. On the side of light, we have Josh Hutchins and Swan. Josh is a former pro wrestler (who is also black, so kudos to McCammon for the forward thinking in 1986) and Swan is his adopted daughter, a psychically gifted little girl who has the miraculous ability to make plants grow and generally has this whole messianic thing going on. On the dark side, we have Randall Fla - sorry, "The Man With The Scarlet Eye", who is your average agent of chaos who wants to watch the world burn. He's got his army of survivalist nutbags, antivaxxers, people who won't wear masks, my sixth grade teacher who threw a desk at a kid that one time, and...oh look, it's Mitch McConnell because not unlike cockroaches, he survives EVERYTHING!

I'm sorry, what was I talking about?

The bad guys. Right, the bad guys are being led by a moody teenager and a former Air Force guy who essentially form a massive army of neckbeards and incels who want to take over the world and don't really get that their "Friend" (scarlet eye) is really just trying to end everything.

When I read this, I really did wonder what was up with McCammon writing something that on the surface bore such a strong resemblance to another incredibly popular book. This came out roughly ten years after The Stand, which Stephen King has always described as sort of his Lord of the Rings in an American setting. So I think it's kind of interesting that what most makes McCammon's book stand out from The Stand (hardy har har) is how much more poetic and Tolkienesque it is.

“We all start out knowing magic. We are born with whirlwinds, forest fires, and comets inside us. We are born able to sing to birds and read the clouds and see our destiny in grains of sand. But then we get the magic educated right out of our souls.”

I mean, damn.

This book is very, very much Frodo and the one ring if Mt. Doom was a bunker with nuclear missiles in it and everyone was trying to find the ring rather than destroy it. I mean, there's even an ACTUAL ring. But, where King infused his world with a vengeful, blood lusting Christian god straight out of the old testament and the quest is basically to stand in one spot while he sends his wrath on Sodom and Gomorrah (I mean, the actual goal of the GOOD GUYS in the book literally becomes launching nuclear bombs), McCammon's is one where legit magic is struggling to be reborn into a world that has forgotten it. Where Mother Abagail and her "killer god" preach a righteousness that doesn't care who it takes down in its quest to clean the earth of evil and sin, McCammon wants to get back to a time before we gave things names like god or the devil.

It makes total sense that the representation of that kind of magic is a child who, in her innocence and naivete, doesn't even really understand her own power. She touches dead trees and they grow. She touches people and they're no longer in pain. She looks at them and inspires love.

It also makes sense that the bad guys are led by a whiny shithead 13 year old (*cough* Harold Lauder *cough*) who under normal circumstances would probably be writing angry manifestos while blasting Marilyn Manson in his bedroom. He doesn't have a clue what the hell he's doing. He's just angry at everyone and someone gives him a gun and suddenly he's in charge.

Even the ending has a simplicity that rings truer to me than King's. It doesn't involve spies or needless sacrifice or grand gestures. It's about a simple act of forgiveness.

I LOVE that.

Swan Song isn't so much about "getting things back up and running" as it is about returning the world to innocence, sowing the Garden of Eden again and this time letting anyone who wants to come and eat of its fruit. Yes, even the smart apples.

This is a book that hits you in the heart where The Stand is more about socking you in the gut. I remember feeling very happy when I was finished with it, which strikes me as an unusual feeling to have at the end of a book about the end of the world. But I think that's because the end of this story really does feel like a beginning, like a rebirth into a place without fear of things we don't understand, a place that replaces ignorance and blind zealotry with compassion and a desire to find a place to compromise rather than wage a war.

For the first 300 - 400 pages of this book, I was firmly convinced that it would earn a solid 4 stars. It was gritty, violent, and even brutal in a truly realistic, horrifying yet captivating manner. The characters were interesting, and the supernatural elements were intriguing.

However, as the story progressed, things took a turn for the worse. The characters, who initially seemed to have complex backgrounds, remained one-dimensional throughout. Their supposed depth and conflicts never came to fruition. For example, Sister and Josh, two of the so-called good guys, had dark pasts that were never fully explored. Sister was responsible for the death of her young daughter, and Josh had abandoned his kids. Roland, who was clearly a sociopath, loved his parents, and Macklin, who was on the bad side, was suffering from severe trauma after the Vietnam war. But these aspects of their characters never played a role in the story or their development.

Swan, the supposed protagonist, was not a real character either. She was simply there, and her beauty and presence magically inspired people. She was portrayed as a helpless, "pure," "clean," "delicate flower," and a virginal figure. However, the author's constant sexualized descriptions of her were highly disturbing, especially considering she was only 16 years old. It felt like a creepy projection of the author's own fantasies.

The writing also had its flaws. Some of the similes and descriptions were downright ridiculous. For instance, comparing tiny bits of glass in someone's hair to wet diamonds was completely pointless. It was like saying a garnet shone like a ruby. What was the purpose of such a comparison?

Moreover, there was a lack of research in the book. The behavior of the wolves and bobcats was inaccurate, and the presence of so many bobcats in a single forest was unexplained. The author also seemed to be inconsistent about the state of the vegetation.

The ending was equally disappointing. It was pointless and dumb. The idea that a nuclear explosion could change the Earth's axis was absurd, especially considering the Earth had been in a nuclear winter for 7 years.

Overall, I was baffled by the positive reviews this book received. It was a waste of time, with no subtlety and everything presented in a black or white, "in your face" manner. I would not recommend this book to anyone.

When I first came across this book and read the synopsis, a thought immediately crossed my mind: was it perhaps a rip off of Stephen King's epic masterpiece, The Stand?

However, I decided to give McCammon the benefit of the doubt. After all, I had really liked his previous novels. So, I bought the book anyway.

Oh my goodness, what a great decision that turned out to be! This book is just absolutely terrific entertainment.

Although the post-apocalyptic theme and the basic plot bear some resemblance to The Stand, I actually find myself liking Swan Song even better. It doesn't feel as bloated as some other books in the genre and the pacing is just right.

Normally, I'm not a big fan of keeping track of several different groups of characters because I often end up forgetting who is who and what they are up to. But with this book, the multi-plot structure is executed extremely well.

All of the well-developed characters are engaged in something interesting, which makes it easy to follow along and stay invested in the story.

And the best part? The book has a very satisfying epic ending that ties everything together beautifully.

So, whether you're a die-hard fan of The Stand or not, I highly recommend giving this book a read.

(As of today, this has the highest average rating by Goodreads members on my Top 20 shelf, which just goes to show how much people love it!)

Considering the rave reviews on this one, I guess I'll just have to assume my'scrooge' stage is kicking in early. I'll fall back on my "I guess it's just me" line.

I can't help but mention The Stand because of the apocalyptic/supernatural comparison and because I noticed it referenced by many others. Just my opinion, but this book did not come anywhere close to the quality of The Stand. The Stand had a depth and complexity that this book lacked. It painted a vivid picture of a post-apocalyptic world and the characters' struggles within it. This book, on the other hand, felt a bit flat and one-dimensional.

If I had read this when it first published, I would have been in my 20's and probably would have liked it a lot more. Maybe it's because as we get older, our tastes change and we become more critical. Or maybe it's just that this book didn't have the same appeal for me as it did for others. It just didn't work for me now.

“Once upon a time, man had a love affair with fire.” This is the kind of opening that immediately grabs your attention and sets the stage for an epic adventure. Swan Song is, without a doubt, the best book in terms of pure enjoyment that I've ever read. But it deserves a full review to truly do it justice.

The story begins with a catastrophic event caused by the US government and military, leading to the destruction of most of the world's population. From the ashes, a group of characters emerge, divided into two sides: good vs evil. One side is led by a female touched by God, while the other is led by an antichrist figure with supernatural powers. The final battle between the two sides is the culmination of this thrilling tale.

Now, I must admit that the premise may seem familiar, as it follows a similar script to The Stand. However, for me, the differences between the two books are substantial and, in many ways, Swan Song is superior. The writing in Swan Song is superb, with great imagery and description that truly brings the post-apocalyptic world to life. McCammon is a brilliant writer, and in this book, he is at the peak of his powers.

Any great story needs great characters, and Swan Song has many. The three main characters on each side are fantastic, original, and well-developed. We have Josh (Black Frankenstein), an ex-wrestler with a heart of gold; Sister Creep, a hobo with PTSD; and Sue Wanda (Swan), a fragile young girl with an amazing power. On the other side, we have Colonel Maklin, an ex-war hero with sinister motives; Rolland, a boy with the makings of a young Adolf Hitler; and the man with the Scarlet Eye, a terrifying entity with supernatural powers. The supporting characters are also excellent, adding depth and richness to the story.

The journey in Swan Song is what makes it truly special. The places the characters travel to and the development of each one are both staggering and emotional. The author weaves in humor, sadness, and intense action scenes that never let up for one second. The pacing is perfect, and the book reads like a two-hundred-page thriller, even though it's nearly one thousand pages long.

In conclusion, Swan Song is an absolute masterpiece. It's a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end, and it's one that you'll want to read again and again. If you're looking for a great read that will entertain you more than you thought possible, then look no further than Swan Song. Prepare to be amazed!

  "Once upon a time, man had a love affair with fire."









  "he was a scream wrapped up in straw, a little, weak, vicious thing gnashing inside a monstrous facade."









  "take it one step at a time. One step and then the next gets you where you’re going"

Full video review here: https://youtu.be/cqLjoh4fn3M

Maybe The Best Post-Apocalyptic Book Ever Written. No joke.

This post-apocalyptic book is truly a masterpiece. It takes the reader on a thrilling journey through a world that has been devastated by some unknown cataclysm. The author's vivid descriptions bring the desolate landscapes and the struggles of the survivors to life.

The characters in the book are well-developed and relatable. They face numerous challenges and obstacles as they try to survive in this new world. Their relationships and interactions add depth and complexity to the story.

The plot is engaging and full of twists and turns. It keeps the reader on the edge of their seat from beginning to end. The book also explores themes such as hope, survival, and the human spirit.

In conclusion, this is a must-read for anyone who loves post-apocalyptic fiction. It is a book that will stay with you long after you have finished reading it.

This is copy number 252 out of a total of 650 signed and numbered copies. Each copy holds a certain significance and value.

It is part of a limited edition series, carefully crafted and curated. The act of signing and numbering each copy adds a personal touch and exclusivity.

Owners of these copies can take pride in possessing a unique piece. Whether it is a work of art, a book, or some other collectible item, the numbered copy represents a connection to the creator and the limited nature of the production.

It is a tangible reminder of the rarity and specialness of the item. As time passes, these signed and numbered copies may become even more valuable and sought after by collectors.

They serve as a testament to the craftsmanship and creativity that went into their making.

A Massive Journey of Love and Hate

Robert McCammon's work is a captivating adventure that you'll either end up loving or hating. He doesn't waste time with unnecessary padding in his chapters. Instead, he sets a rapid pace, allowing the story to unfold quickly. The characters are introduced and need to be understood fairly fast. It's important to note that this was written in the 80's, so there are no cell phones, iPods, or the Internet. Yet, McCammon still manages to maintain a vivid connection between the characters, even though they are worlds apart.

The beginning of the story is the end, as people are bracing for a nuclear war. Fallout shelters are built, and the President of the United States is being briefed for the imminent conflict. Before the main characters can adapt to the effects of a post-apocalyptic world, their introductions give a glimpse into who they will become. Age, unique talents and skills, gender, and other factors all play a role. Some have cars, canned food, the ability to wield weapons, or a strong will to live. Certain parts of the country adapt to varying degrees, creating an almost alien landscape.

Swan/Sue Wanda is a little girl who can hear the hurting sound plants make when they die. She also has a special power that allows life to thrive in her fingertips, beyond just being able to tend a garden. Black Frankenstein/Josh the Wrestler is a massive man whose family is miles away. His loneliness leads him to food binges, and his size gives him his stage name. Sister Creep had a breakdown that landed her in bad times, but she later becomes a hero.
However, even after a nuclear war, the survivors struggle to return to society. There is no governing body, and it's every man for himself. The underlying fantasy element and the exploration of the human condition are what make this story so engaging. I loved every minute of it and wanted to re-read it years later.

It's a story that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

Well, I approach this review with some trepidation.

A large number of readers here love this book. There's even a "Goodreads friend" whom I usually agree with (sorry Stephen, Stephanie, Rose). But I just didn't care for it. I found it a "poor man's The Stand". The book is rife with stereotypes, cliches, and tropes. Old hackneyed ideas like "guns are BAD", if you look nonthreatening you're less likely to be threatened, and war is evil go on and on. Some of the storytelling reminded me of the old "what would happen if they gave a war and nobody came" idea from the late 60s and 70s. Nobody ever seems to answer that. Well, I will. What happens? They bring the war to you.

We start with yet another wipe the world out to tell the story scenario, only this time it's with nukes instead of a germ. The people (characters) other than Swan, Josh, and poor crazed broken Sister are hard to identify with. The story doesn't really hold together within its own bounds. It just seems to fail on so many levels. The "Bad Guys" are basically the remnants of the military ( "military baaaaaad"). The good guys? Kids and a crazy lady (crazy, but of course innocent and nice). It goes on and on. The characters and plot show the marks of a cookie cutter. I'm sorry to all you who love this book, I just don't.

I want to interject that McCammon wrote one of my all-time favorite books, Boy's Life. I've read others by him that I liked a lot. So when I saw the glowing reports on this one, I searched it out. But I just found it not nearly up to his standards or to the standards of other post-apocalyptic novels. Read The Stand, Alas Babylon, Earth Abides (more of a downer). This one, "for me", just doesn't measure up. That's in my opinion, of course. Sorry.

I will be reading other books by Mr. McCammon, as I've read good books by him that I really like. But this one goes on my to-be-sold, traded, or whatever pile.

I don't usually write reviews.

Discipline and control are essential in all aspects of life, Lizz. I'll attempt to restrain myself here, but my goodness, this novel is a real chore. I hate the feeling that my time has been wasted. Also, I'm not a fan of picking up a book and sighing deeply, asking "what now, bro, really?" My first gripe is the length. Bigger isn't always better. McCammon was competing directly with King and others, so long, drawn-out stories were expected. Super-long can be done well, as seen in any of Colleen McCullough's Masters of Rome series, which are compelling and sturdy masterpieces. However, one can quickly notice when a writer is desperately striving for length. Maybe I'm sensing the struggle?

Next, there's the inconsistency, often slipping into negligent storytelling. Cardboard shelters in a nuclear wasteland where it rains and snows daily? -_- Characters are grotesquely injured in a land with no medical care, no antibiotics, and no clean water, yet miraculously heal from lost limbs, compound fractures, etc., while starving and dehydrated. The main character animals are healthy enough to survive seven years of fallout, yet there are also mutated, frenzied, two-headed bobcats with independently minded heads fighting each other. Children raised without any connection to the past world speak as if they grew up watching TV. What a waste of an opportunity to create a fun culture like in Riddley Walker (Russell Hoban's very interesting post-apocalyptic story).

Shall we move on to predictability without pleasure? Right now, I'm reading The Third Grave by David Case and I understand what's going on. So, yes, it's predictable, but the writing is solid. I'm immersed. In Swan's Song, I keep making predictions and they're correct, but I feel nothing. Job's Mask cracking to show someone's true face... okay, but why? And how? Since I already thought of those questions, McCammon didn't succeed.

Finally, I'll mention the weird, rigid dialectic of good and evil: another idea used to poor effect. The embodiment of evil is weak and ineffectual, though at times, omniscient. I've never been less afraid of the bad guy. He wanders around seeing everything, doing nothing, and explaining things like a James Bond villain. Other than him, the bad guys have bad faces and the good guys have good faces. I mean this literally, as seen in the Job's Mask comment. Yes, I understand what you're getting at, Robert, but I just don't care.

Okay. Well, I first read this book during my high school days.

Years later, I decided to reread it as I couldn't recall precisely why it had remained so firmly in my memory all these years.

I must say that there are numerous aspects of this book that bear a striking resemblance to Stephen King's The Stand, yet it manages to be original enough to avoid being simply classified as a King imitation.

There are a plethora of characters that one can't help but care about, and the tension throughout the story never relents.

The book commences a bit slowly, but I think that's to be anticipated with such an epic novel.

I adored the scenes featuring Sister, Swan, and Josh the most.

I felt that McCammon made a genuine effort to construct realistic and empathetic characters within mostly believable settings in this book.

He had me hooked right from page one.

McCammon makes it abundantly clear early on that he has certain messages to convey through this novel.

This is a story about the aftermath of World War III.

There are countless theories regarding how the world would look like after a nuclear holocaust, but no one can truly fathom what it would be like.

Well, McCammon truly made me believe that his descriptions of the post-apocalyptic world he crafted were rather accurate in depicting what life would be like following such an event.

The best part of this book was the supernatural element that was central to the plot.

It serves to counterbalance the all-too-real and harsh backdrops of despair and ruination that pervade this post-apocalyptic world he has created.

There were a few moments while I was reading this book when I couldn't help but chuckle, and despite that, I still award it a five-star review for taking me on a journey I'll never forget.

I'll mention one more thing about McCammon's style.

He knew precisely how to convey the intended meaning of his words extremely well.

He seemed to have an exact understanding of what works and what doesn't.

I am so glad I accompanied Sister, Swan, Josh, and all the other vivid characters inhabiting this lengthy book on their journey.

This book is undoubtedly not without its share of serious flaws, but I choose not to point them out.

I'll simply state that despite the imperfections, the overall picture is still beautiful.

I would most definitely read this book again. Five stars. A truly wonderful read. I wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone.

One of my trusty Goodreads friends recently recommended Robert McCammon to me, and I am extremely grateful that she did. (Thanks, Jennifer!) To be honest, when I read "Boy's Life," I zoned out at times because it seemed a bit too wordy. However, I didn't encounter that issue at all with "Swan Song." Wow! Robert McCammon is truly a very talented storyteller. I was immediately engrossed in this dystopian story of survival after a nuclear holocaust.

Most people, including myself, often think that long books can be a chore, especially for those with a shorter attention span. But with "Swan Song," I enjoyed it so much that I regarded it as a series all condensed into one book, so I wouldn't have to wait for the next installment! The writing is excellent, and the characters are so well-developed that I felt as if I really knew them, and I still do. Ultimately, I'm sad that the book ended.

I wholeheartedly recommend this book!