Discover the groundbreaking dystopian classic that has become one of the most influential science fiction novels of all time. Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler is the first book in the acclaimed Earthseed Series, blending speculative fiction, climate fiction, and social commentary into an unforgettable story of resilience, hope, and survival. Widely regarded as a modern masterpiece, this bestselling novel follows a courageous young woman whose vision for humanity may be its only chance for a better future.

Parable of the Sower is Book 1 of the Earthseed Series.

In a near-future America devastated by climate change, economic collapse, and social unrest, fifteen-year-old Lauren Olamina lives behind the walls of a small gated community outside Los Angeles. Though sheltered from the violence beyond its borders, Lauren knows their fragile safety cannot last forever.

Lauren also lives with a unique condition called hyperempathy, causing her to physically experience the pain and emotions of others. As the world around her continues to unravel, she realizes survival will require more than strength—it will demand vision, leadership, and the courage to imagine a different future.

When unimaginable tragedy forces Lauren onto a dangerous journey through a collapsing nation, she begins developing a new philosophy called Earthseed, planting the first seeds of hope in a world consumed by fear and uncertainty.

Powerful, thought-provoking, and remarkably relevant, Parable of the Sower explores survival, community, climate change, faith, resilience, and the enduring power of hope.

Parable of the Sower – Earthseed Series Book One

Perfect for fans of Margaret Atwood, N.K. Jemisin, Emily St. John Mandel, Ursula K. Le Guin, Ray Bradbury, and Cormac McCarthy, this award-winning novel features dystopian fiction, post-apocalyptic survival, climate fiction, Afrofuturism, speculative fiction, coming-of-age themes, and unforgettable world-building.

Product Details

Title: Parable of the Sower

Author: Octavia E. Butler

Format: Paperback

Series: Earthseed Series

Book: 1

Genre:

• Science Fiction
• Dystopian Fiction
• Post-Apocalyptic Fiction
• Speculative Fiction
• Afrofuturism

Pages: 368

Dimensions: 1.2 x 8 x 5.1 inches

Publication Date: April 30, 2019

Accelerated Reader:

• Interest Level: Upper Grades (9–12)
• Reading Level: 4.6
• AR Points: 15

Features:

• Earthseed Series Book 1
• Modern dystopian classic
• Award-winning author
• Climate fiction
• Post-apocalyptic survival
• Afrofuturism
• Coming-of-age story
• Strong female protagonist
• Literary science fiction
• Includes a foreword by LeVar Burton and an afterword by N.K. Jemisin

Author Biography

Octavia E. Butler was a pioneering science fiction author whose groundbreaking work transformed speculative fiction. A recipient of the prestigious MacArthur Fellowship ("Genius Grant") and the PEN West Lifetime Achievement Award, Butler is celebrated for classics including Parable of the Sower, Parable of the Talents, Kindred, Dawn, and Wild Seed. Her novels are renowned for their powerful social commentary, unforgettable characters, and visionary exploration of race, gender, climate, and humanity's future. Today, Butler remains one of the most influential voices in modern science fiction.