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Wool (Silo, Book 1)
Shift (Silo, Book 2
Dust (Silo, Book 3)
By: Hugh Howey
My Rating: FIVE OUT OF FIVE STARS
Best For: 16 and up

The Silo Series (Wool, Shift, and Dust): A content aware book review

2025 Re-Read of the entire Silo Series:

Okay, here’s your challenge: Search through Amazon and find me a book with over 48,000 PERFECT 5-star ratings. Trust me, you won’t find many. One that IS on that short list is Wool by Hugh Howey–and it’s there for good reason. The Silo books (Wool, Shift, Dust) are exceptional! It’s the little indie book that could, despite the weird name! When I first read Wool, there were only 1600 ratings on Amazon. Now there are over 48,000! What are you waiting for?

What’s it about?

Imagine a world where your entire existence is confined to a giant underground silo, 148 levels deep. No elevator, just a massive spiral staircase connecting the levels. No one remembers life above ground; those people have been dead for centuries. Life in the silo is a monotonous routine, with everyone assigned a specific job and role. You might work in the nurseries, the gardens, or the mechanical depths, keeping the lights on and the air breathable. But what happens when you dare to dream of a life beyond the silo walls?

Wool introduces us to this claustrophobic world and its mysteries. We meet Juliette, a mechanic from the depths, who uncovers a shocking truth about the silo and its history. Shift takes us back in time, revealing the origins of the silo and the events that led to its creation. Dust brings the story full circle, culminating in a thrilling climax that will leave you breathless.

What did I love?

The World-Building: Howey’s creation of the silo is nothing short of masterful. He paints a vivid picture of this self-contained society, with its intricate workings and complex social structures. The silo becomes a character in itself, both a prison and a sanctuary for its inhabitants.
The Characters: Juliette is a fantastic protagonist – strong, resourceful, and determined to uncover the truth. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, each with their own motivations and secrets.
The Suspense: The Silo saga is a masterclass in suspense. Howey keeps you guessing until the very end, with twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The Emotional Impact: This series is not just a thrilling sci-fi adventure; it’s a story about humanity, resilience, and the power of hope. It explores the themes of control, freedom, and the importance of questioning the status quo.

What didn’t I love?

The Pacing: The pacing can be a bit uneven at times, especially in Shift, which jumps between different timelines.

Sensitive Content

Violence: There are some violent scenes, including deaths and physical altercations.
Strong language: There is some strong language, particularly in Wool.

Should you read it?

If you’re a fan of dystopian fiction, sci-fi thrillers, or just great storytelling, then you absolutely must read the Silo saga. It’s a captivating and thought-provoking series that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. This dad says the Silo saga is appropriate for readers 16 and up.

Happy Reading!