A futuristic novel, published in 1887 and a bestseller in its time; in reprint almost perpetually since then. The protagonist sleeps from 1887 to 2000, and then "looks back," comparing the social, political, and economic milieu of his time with that which he's arrived in. Somewhat utopian, clearly an indictment on some of the trends of late 19th century Western culture; and, like some of Jules Verne's work, a bit prophetic. Bellamy's ideology, values, and hopes are implied clearly enough, but not overbearing. A good enough read; I reread it about once every 10 years for the decent story line and thought-provoking value. The sequel "Equality," by the way, is a disappointment: less interesting story line, more plodding, far too polemic.

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