The Chrysalids - John Wyndham
This classic science fiction novel takes place in a world recovering from some global nuclear disaster (known as The Tribulation), society has reverted back to largely rural societies, and mutations are considered curses, and must be purged - be they plant, or animal, or even human. The mutant humans live predominantly in The Fringes, regions that have greater levels of residual radiation. However, on occasion these mutants are crossing the boundaries into 'normal' human territory.
The hero of the story, David Strorm, gradually comes to realise that he has a mutation of his own - telepathy - and must keep that truth hidden from his super-religious father while connecting with an ever growing group of other telepaths. Eventually the truth comes out and David must flee into the Fringes, with the aim of reaching "Sealand", a reference to my own home country that I greatly enjoyed.
Works where fundamentalist Christian offshoots are the villains are interesting for me to read. As a believer, they can occasionally be offensive, but in general I find myself sadly agreeing with the assessment of some people who use my faith as an excuse for close-minded, judgmental, or even cruel behaviour. The 'villains' in The Chrysalids are relatable, as even though they are acting intolerantly, it is easy to see how people in that situation could develop the beliefs they have. Not that this makes them right.
An interesting read.
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