Who is Alex and what is her initial motivation for being in the woods?

Alex is the protagonist, a troubled young woman with a brain tumor. She went into the woods near her home in Wisconsin with the intention of committing suicide, seeking to escape her personal demons and the grief of her dead parents, when the EMP struck.

Who are Tom and Ellie, and how do they initially meet Alex?

Tom is a young soldier who was on leave when the EMP hit, and Ellie is a young girl whose grandfather was killed by the EMP. Alex encounters Tom and Ellie after waking up post-EMP, as they are also trying to navigate the immediate aftermath and find safety.

What is the primary threat that emerges in the post-EMP world, beyond the lack of technology?

Beyond the collapse of technology, the primary threat is the emergence of the 'Changed' – people infected by a mysterious illness that turns them into violent, zombie-like creatures with enhanced senses and strength. These creatures are relentless hunters and pose a constant danger to survivors.

Where do Alex, Tom, and Ellie seek refuge for a significant portion of the story?

They seek refuge at a fortified compound run by a survivalist group led by a man named Chief. This compound, located in the wilderness, becomes a temporary haven offering some protection from the Changed, but also introduces new social and moral dilemmas for the group.

What is the significance of Alex's brain tumor in the context of the Changed?

Alex's brain tumor grants her a unique immunity or resistance to the virus that creates the Changed. While others are susceptible, her specific neurological condition seems to protect her, making her a valuable, yet also vulnerable, anomaly in the post-apocalyptic world.

Are there any clues early on that suggest the EMP might not be a natural phenomenon?

The book hints that the EMP might not be entirely natural, with mentions of strange atmospheric phenomena and the seemingly targeted nature of the event. While not explicitly stated as man-made, the abruptness and widespread devastation suggest something more than just a solar flare.

What is the subtle connection between the 'whispers' Alex hears and the Changed?

The 'whispers' Alex hears are not just a symptom of her brain tumor; they are actually the psychic or telepathic communications of the Changed. Her tumor somehow allows her to perceive their collective consciousness and intentions, giving her a terrifying insight into their nature.

How does Alex's past trauma and suicidal ideation influence her survival instincts?

Alex's past trauma and suicidal ideation initially make her feel like she has nothing to lose, which paradoxically fuels a fierce will to survive for others. She often takes risks that others wouldn't, driven by a blend of self-preservation and a newfound purpose in protecting Tom and Ellie.

Discuss the psychological impact of the 'Changed' on the survivors, beyond physical fear.

The 'Changed' have a profound psychological impact, forcing survivors to confront the loss of humanity in their former neighbors and loved ones. This leads to intense grief, paranoia, and moral dilemmas about who can be trusted and whether those afflicted are truly gone or merely altered.

How does Tom's military background shape his leadership and decision-making in the group?

Tom's military background instills a sense of discipline, strategic thinking, and a protective instinct, making him a natural leader. However, it also sometimes leads to rigid adherence to protocols or a difficulty in adapting to the morally ambiguous realities of a world without rules, creating friction with Alex.

What internal conflict does Alex face regarding her unique ability to perceive the Changed?

Alex faces immense internal conflict regarding her ability to perceive the Changed, as it blurs the line between her illness and their nature. She struggles with the fear of becoming like them, the isolation of her secret, and the burden of knowing their thoughts, often questioning her own sanity.

Is the ending of 'Ashes' definitive, or does it leave room for interpretation regarding humanity's future?

The ending of 'Ashes' is not entirely definitive, leaving significant room for interpretation regarding humanity's future. While Alex and her companions survive the immediate threats, the broader resolution of the EMP and the Changed is left open, hinting at ongoing struggles and an uncertain path forward.

What deeper message about human connection does the book convey through Alex, Tom, and Ellie's makeshift family?

The book conveys a powerful message about human connection, illustrating that in the face of utter devastation, forming bonds and finding a surrogate family is crucial for survival and maintaining one's humanity. Their relationship highlights resilience, loyalty, and the redemptive power of caring for others.

How does the author use the post-apocalyptic setting to explore themes of identity and self-discovery for Alex?

The post-apocalyptic setting forces Alex to shed her old identity, which was defined by her illness and despair. Stripped of societal norms, she discovers inner strength, a will to live, and a purpose she never knew she had, ultimately redefining who she is beyond her brain tumor and past trauma.

What is the ethical dilemma presented by the notion of 'the Changed' and how survivors interact with them?

The ethical dilemma revolves around whether the Changed are truly monstrous, or if there's a remnant of their former selves. Survivors grapple with the morality of killing them, especially when they were once loved ones, and the question of whether there's any hope for a cure or recovery, challenging their definitions of humanity.

Does the book offer any definitive explanation for the origin of the EMP or the virus that creates the Changed?

The book does not offer a definitive explanation for the origin of either the EMP or the virus. Their genesis remains largely a mystery, contributing to the pervasive sense of fear and uncertainty. This ambiguity serves to heighten the terror and focus on the immediate struggle for survival rather than scientific solutions.

Archivist's Choice

Ashes

Name: Ashes
Availability: InStock
Rating: 3.64 (1059 reviews)
ISBN: 9781606841754

Ilsa J. Bick (2011)

Genre

Children's / Historical Fiction / Young Adult

Reading Time

10-12 hours

Key Themes

See below

Track Your Reading

Stranded in a world silenced by an EMP, a grieving teen, a soldier, and a young girl must form a family to survive the technological apocalypse and the terrifying evolution of humanity itself.

Synopsis

Alex, a terminally ill teenager, goes on a last hike into the Wisconsin wilderness to scatter her parents' ashes. An electromagnetic pulse (EMP) flashes across the sky, crippling all electronics and killing most of humanity. Alex, disoriented but alive, encounters Tom, a young soldier, and Ellie, a small girl whose grandfather died in the pulse. Together, this makeshift family navigates the desolate, post-apocalyptic landscape, trying to reach safety. They soon discover that some survivors have been grotesquely 'Changed' by the EMP, becoming feral, zombie-like creatures with an insatiable hunger. As they journey, they encounter other pockets of survivors, some kind, some dangerous, forcing Alex to confront her own mortality and the harsh realities of this new world. The group must constantly fight for resources, evade the Changed, and decide who to trust, all while Alex grapples with her fading health and the brutal choices needed for survival.

Reading time

10-12 hours

Difficulty

Medium

Pacing

Moderate

Mood

Bleak, Suspenseful, Gritty, Desperate

✓ Read this if...

You enjoy gritty, character-driven post-apocalyptic survival stories with a focus on psychological tension and brutal realities.

✗ Skip this if...

You prefer lighthearted reads, shy away from gore and difficult themes, or dislike ambiguous endings.

Plot Summary

The Last Hike

Seventeen-year-old Alex, an oncology patient with a brain tumor, hikes into the remote Wisconsin woods with a loaded gun, intending to commit suicide. She is haunted by the recent deaths of her parents and the lingering effects of her cancer treatment. As she contemplates her final act, a blinding flash of light, an electromagnetic pulse (EMP), rips across the sky. The force of the pulse knocks her unconscious, throwing her into a ravine and severely injuring her leg. When she awakens, her gun is gone and the world is eerily silent, all electronic devices useless. This event, which she later learns is called 'The Flash,' irrevocably changes her plans and the entire world.

A Desperate Alliance

Alex, severely injured and disoriented, struggles to survive in the post-EMP wilderness. She is weak from her illness and injury, making her journey difficult. She eventually stumbles upon a small, isolated cabin where she finds Tom, a young Army reservist who was on leave when the EMP struck. Tom is initially wary but helps Alex, tending to her wounds. Shortly after, they discover Ellie, a young girl, hiding in a closet. Ellie is in shock and largely non-verbal, having witnessed her grandfather's death during the Flash and the subsequent chaos. The three form an uneasy, makeshift family, bound by their shared vulnerability and the immediate need for survival.

The Road to Survival

Deciding they cannot stay in the isolated cabin, Alex, Tom, and Ellie begin a perilous journey towards what they hope will be safety and answers – possibly a military base or a larger town. They soon discover that the EMP's effects extend beyond just electronics. Many people have been killed or mutated by the pulse. They encounter desperate survivors, some of whom are hostile scavengers, and others who have been transformed into monstrous, zombie-like creatures known as 'The Changed.' These Changed are strong, fast, and seem to be drawn to sound, posing a constant threat. The trio must learn to navigate this new, dangerous world, making difficult decisions about who to trust and how to protect themselves.

Encounter with the Changed

During their journey, the group has their first direct and terrifying encounter with a large group of the Changed. They are relentless and seemingly insatiable. Tom, with his limited military training, tries to lead their defense, but their numbers are overwhelming. Alex, despite her physical weakness, discovers an unexpected resilience and a fierce will to protect Ellie. The confrontation highlights the brutal reality of their new world and the extreme danger posed by the Changed. They manage to escape, but the experience leaves them deeply shaken and reinforces the fact that humanity is no longer the sole predator in this post-apocalyptic world. They realize that these creatures are not just mindless monsters, but an evolution.

The Search for Supplies

Facing dwindling supplies and Alex's worsening leg injury, the group decides to risk entering a deserted small town to scavenge for food, medicine, and other essentials. The town is eerily quiet, a sign of the devastation of the Flash. They cautiously enter a grocery store, finding it ransacked but still containing some salvageable items. The tension is palpable as they navigate the aisles, constantly on alert for both other survivors and the Changed. This foray into a once-familiar setting, now a dangerous wasteland, shows the loss of their old world and the harsh necessities of their new one. They gather what they can, recognizing the preciousness of every single item.

The Community of Survivors

Eventually, Alex, Tom, and Ellie stumble upon a small, fortified community of survivors led by a man named General Morrison. The community offers a semblance of safety and structure, something they desperately need. However, Alex quickly senses an underlying tension and suspicion among the residents. Morrison, a former military man, maintains strict control, and his methods are often harsh. While the community provides much-needed food and shelter, Alex and Tom remain wary, observing the dynamics and questioning Morrison's true intentions. They learn that the community is struggling with dwindling resources and the constant threat of the Changed, making every decision a matter of life and death.

Seeds of Doubt

As Alex spends more time within Morrison's community, her initial unease grows into outright suspicion. She observes his authoritarian rule and the fear he instills in his people. She also notices subtle but disturbing signs about the Changed – their behavior, their intelligence, and how Morrison's group interacts with them. Through her keen observations and a few whispered conversations, Alex begins to uncover the unsettling truth: Morrison is not just protecting his people; he is actively experimenting with the Changed, possibly even manipulating them. This discovery puts Alex and Tom in a precarious position, as they realize they might be safer outside the community than within it, despite the apparent security.

The Escape Plan

Having confirmed her suspicions about General Morrison's sinister experiments and the true nature of his control, Alex, with Tom's help, begins to formulate a plan to escape the compound. They know that leaving will be incredibly dangerous, not only because of Morrison's watchful eyes but also due to the ever-present threat of the Changed outside the walls. Their primary concern is Ellie's safety. They meticulously plan their movements, gathering what few supplies they can discreetly. The tension within the compound rises as Alex and Tom become more aware of the dangers lurking not only beyond the walls but also within the very place they sought refuge. Their trust in humanity is further eroded by Morrison's actions.

Confrontation and Flight

Alex and Tom put their escape plan into action, but their attempt is discovered by Morrison and his loyalists. A tense and violent confrontation ensues within the compound. Alex, despite her physical limitations, proves to be resourceful and courageous, using her intelligence to outwit their pursuers. Tom's military skills are put to the ultimate test as he fights to protect Alex and Ellie. The escape is messy and desperate, resulting in casualties on both sides. They manage to break free from the compound, but not without significant losses and injuries. They know Morrison will undoubtedly pursue them. They are once again on the run, but with a clearer understanding of the evil they are facing.

The Nature of the Changed

Now on their own again, Alex begins to experience strange visions and sensations, seemingly connected to the Changed. Her brain tumor, combined with the EMP's effects, has given her a unique, terrifying link to these creatures. She starts to understand their 'language' and even their motives, realizing they are more complex than simple monsters. This connection is both a burden and a potential advantage. She discovers that the Changed are not just victims of the EMP; they are evolving, and some, like Alex, may have a nascent form of their abilities. This revelation forces Alex to confront her own identity and her place in this new, terrifying world, blurring the lines between human and monster.

The Journey to the Capital

Armed with new insights into the Changed and the continued threat of Morrison, Alex, Tom, and Ellie decide their best chance for long-term survival is to reach a rumored safe zone in Washington D.C. This journey is immensely challenging, covering vast distances through a ravaged landscape. They face constant dangers from the environment, other desperate survivors, and the ever-present Changed. Alex's unique connection to the Changed becomes increasingly vital, allowing them to anticipate threats and sometimes even navigate through dangerous areas. The journey forces them to rely on each other completely, solidifying their bond as a makeshift family against all odds.

Sacrifice and Survival

As they near their destination, Alex, Tom, and Ellie face a climactic confrontation, possibly with Morrison's forces or a massive horde of the Changed. The battle is brutal and costly. During this final struggle, a significant sacrifice is made, testing the limits of their endurance and loyalty. Alex is forced to fully embrace her unique abilities and make an impossible choice to protect those she loves. The immediate threat is neutralized, but the future remains uncertain. They have survived, but the world is forever changed, and so are they. The ending leaves the reader with a sense of both triumph and lingering dread, hinting at further challenges and the ongoing evolution of humanity and the Changed.

Principal Figures

Alex (Alexandra)

The Protagonist

Alex transforms from a suicidal, despairing girl into a resilient leader who embraces her unique connection to the Changed, finding a new purpose in survival and protection.

Tom

The Supporting

Tom evolves from a by-the-book soldier into a more adaptable survivor, learning to trust his instincts and Alex's unconventional methods, while deepening his emotional commitment to their group.

Ellie

The Supporting

Ellie begins as a traumatized, silent child and slowly starts to heal and re-engage with the world through the unwavering care of Alex and Tom.

General Morrison

The Antagonist

Morrison's character remains largely static, serving as a representation of unchecked power and scientific hubris in a post-apocalyptic world.

The Changed

The Antagonist/Force of Nature

The Changed evolve from simple monsters into a more complex, intelligent, and terrifying new form of life, mirroring Alex's own transformation.

Themes & Insights

Survival and the Will to Live

The most pervasive theme is the raw, unyielding struggle for survival. Alex, initially suicidal, is forced by the EMP to fight for her life, finding an unexpected will to live. This is shown through her arduous journey through the wilderness, foraging for food, and constantly evading threats. Tom's military training is solely focused on survival, and Ellie's very presence provides a powerful motivation for Alex and Tom to keep going. The desperate actions of other survivors, like scavenging and forming communities, all show this fundamental human drive. Scenes of the group finding meager supplies or narrowly escaping the Changed highlight the preciousness of every moment and resource.

“Maybe that was the thing about the end of the world. You didn't get to choose how you died. You only got to choose how you lived.”

The Nature of Humanity and Monstrosity

The novel explores what it means to be human in a world where the old rules no longer apply. The Changed represent a literal physical transformation into 'monsters,' but the story also questions the monstrosity within humanity itself. General Morrison's cruel experiments and authoritarian rule show that humans can be just as, if not more, monstrous than the mutated creatures. Alex's own evolving connection to the Changed blurs the lines, forcing her to confront her own identity and whether her abilities make her more or less human. The empathy shown towards Ellie by Alex and Tom contrasts with the brutality witnessed from other survivors, highlighting the choices inherent in defining one's humanity.

“Sometimes the monsters were the ones who looked just like you.”

Loss and Grief

Loss is a foundational element of the story. Alex begins the novel grieving the death of her parents and her own terminal illness. The EMP then amplifies this by wiping out civilization as she knew it, leading to the loss of technology, safety, and a predictable future. Ellie's trauma stems directly from witnessing the death of her grandfather. The characters constantly encounter evidence of widespread death and destruction, reinforcing a sense of collective grief for the world that was. This theme is often subtle, woven into descriptions of abandoned towns and the characters' internal struggles, showing how they carry their past losses while fighting for a future.

“The world had ended, and no one had bothered to tell it goodbye.”

Transformation and Adaptation

Transformation is central to the narrative, both literally and figuratively. The most obvious transformation is that of the Changed, who are physically altered by the EMP. However, Alex undergoes a personal transformation, moving from despair to resilience, and her brain tumor, combined with the EMP, grants her unique, evolving abilities. The entire world transforms from a technologically advanced society into a dangerous, primal landscape. The characters must constantly adapt to new threats, new social structures, and new understandings of life and death. This theme emphasizes the idea that survival often requires shedding old identities and embracing new, sometimes terrifying, capabilities.

“You didn't survive by being the same person you were before.”

Plot Devices & Literary Techniques

The Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP)

The catastrophic event that destroys all electronics and triggers human mutation.

The EMP is the inciting incident and the primary catalyst for the entire post-apocalyptic scenario. It instantly renders all electronic devices useless, plunging the world into a pre-industrial state. Crucially, it also acts as the trigger for the mutation of some humans into 'The Changed.' This device effectively resets civilization, creating the harsh, dangerous environment that forces the characters to adapt and evolve. It's a plausible, terrifying threat that grounds the fantastical elements of the Changed in a near-future reality, making the stakes feel incredibly high and immediate.

Alex's Brain Tumor/EMP Connection

Alex's unique medical condition, exacerbated by the EMP, grants her a psychic link to the Changed.

Alex's pre-existing brain tumor, combined with the effects of the EMP, acts as a unique plot device that distinguishes her from other survivors. It's initially a weakness, but it transforms into a powerful, almost psychic connection to the Changed. This connection allows her to sense their presence, understand their movements, and even subtly influence them, making her both a potential target and a crucial asset. This device provides a compelling in-world explanation for her extraordinary abilities and blurs the line between her humanity and the monstrosity of the Changed, driving her character arc and the larger mystery of the Changed's origins.

The Changed as Evolving Threat

The mutated humans are not static monsters but an evolving, increasingly intelligent species.

Unlike typical zombies, the Changed are presented not as mindless hordes but as an evolving threat. Their behavior becomes more coordinated, and Alex's connection reveals a nascent intelligence and even a form of communication among them. This device elevates them beyond simple antagonists, making them a dynamic and unpredictable force. It also raises philosophical questions about what constitutes 'life' and 'humanity,' as the Changed represent a terrifying new step in evolution. Their constant development ensures that the characters can never become complacent in their survival strategies.

The Isolated Cabin/Community

Locations that provide temporary, often deceptive, safety and introduce new challenges.

The isolated cabin where Alex first meets Tom and Ellie, and later General Morrison's fortified community, serve as crucial plot devices. These locations offer temporary respite from the immediate dangers of the outside world, allowing for character development and plot exposition. However, they also introduce new forms of danger – the cabin is vulnerable, and the community, while seemingly safe, harbors a more insidious threat in Morrison's tyranny and experiments. These settings highlight the theme that danger can come from within human society as much as from external threats, pushing the characters back into the perilous wilderness with greater understanding.

Critical analysis

Notable Quotes

“There are no good choices, only less awful ones.”

— Alex contemplating difficult decisions in the post-apocalyptic world.

“The world had ended, but life, stubbornly, went on.”

— Alex observing the resilience of nature and her own will to live after the Change.

“Sometimes, the only way to get through it is to pretend you're not going through it.”

— Alex's internal monologue about coping mechanisms in extreme circumstances.

“Fear makes you do stupid things. But sometimes, it makes you do smart things too.”

— Alex reflecting on the role of fear in her survival and decision-making.

“People don't change. They just reveal who they really are when the chips are down.”

— Alex observing the true nature of others exposed by the apocalypse.

“The dead don't care what you call them. They're still dead.”

— Alex's stark realization about the reality of death and the 'Changed'.

“There's a difference between wanting to die and not caring if you live.”

— Alex's internal struggle with her will to survive vs. her despair.

“Memory is a funny thing. It holds on to what it wants, and lets go of the rest.”

— Alex thinking about how her mind processes traumatic events and past life.

“You can't save everyone. Sometimes, you can't even save yourself.”

— Alex's painful understanding of her limitations in a world of constant danger.

“The past is a ghost. The future is a dream. All you have is now.”

— Alex trying to focus on immediate survival rather than dwelling on what was or might be.

“Hunger makes you desperate. Desperation makes you dangerous.”

— Alex observing the effects of scarcity on human behavior.

“Even in the end of the world, there are still sunsets.”

— Alex finding a small moment of beauty and peace amidst the chaos.

“It's not about being brave. It's about doing what you have to do.”

— Alex dismissing the idea of heroism and focusing on the practicalities of survival.

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Key Questions (FAQ)

The inciting incident is a massive electromagnetic pulse (EMP) that flashes across the sky. This pulse instantaneously destroys all electronic devices and computerized systems, leading to widespread power outages, the collapse of modern infrastructure, and the death of billions globally.

About the author

Ilsa J. Bick

Biography coming soon.

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