“My life amounts to no more than one drop in a limitless ocean. Yet what is any ocean, but a multitude of drops?” — Cloud Atlas
The Pacific Journal of Adam Ewing (Part 1)
In 1850, American notary Adam Ewing records his voyage across the Pacific, where he befriends Dr. Henry Goose, who secretly poisons him. Ewing also witnesses the enslavement of a Moriori tribesman, Autua, who later saves his life.
Letters from Zedelghem
In 1931, bisexual composer Robert Frobisher writes letters to his lover, Rufus Sixsmith, while working as an amanuensis for ailing composer Vyvyan Ayrs. Frobisher steals Ayrs’ work, composes the “Cloud Atlas Sextet,” and ultimately commits suicide.
Half-Lives: The First Luisa Rey Mystery
In 1970s California, journalist Luisa Rey investigates a nuclear power plant conspiracy after meeting an elderly Rufus Sixsmith. She uncovers corporate corruption but is nearly killed before exposing the truth.
The Ghastly Ordeal of Timothy Cavendish
In modern-day London, vanity publisher Timothy Cavendish is tricked into a nursing home by his brother. After a comedic escape, he writes a screenplay adaptation of his ordeal.
An Orison of Sonmi~451
In dystopian Neo Seoul, cloned fabricant Sonmi~451 gains consciousness with the help of rebel Hae-Joo Chang. After exposing the exploitation of clones, she is executed but leaves a recorded manifesto that inspires future rebellions.
Sloosha’s Crossin’ an’ Ev’rythin’ After
In a post-apocalyptic Hawaii, tribesman Zachry recounts his encounter with Meronym, a member of the last technologically advanced society. She seeks a communication relay, and Zachry helps her despite his fears, witnessing the remnants of Sonmi~451’s legacy.
An Orison of Sonmi~451 (Part 2)
Sonmi~451’s execution is revealed, along with her belief that her story will inspire change. Her recorded testimony becomes a sacred text in Zachry’s time.
The Ghastly Ordeal of Timothy Cavendish (Part 2)
Timothy escapes the nursing home and publishes his memoir, which is later adapted into a film.
Half-Lives: The First Luisa Rey Mystery (Part 2)
Luisa survives an assassination attempt and publishes her exposé, which influences future events.
Letters from Zedelghem (Part 2)
Frobisher’s letters conclude with his suicide, but his music endures through time.
The Pacific Journal of Adam Ewing (Part 2)
Adam, cured of poisoning, vows to fight against slavery, setting a ripple effect across centuries.
Key Ideas
- Interconnectedness of human lives across time
- The cyclical nature of oppression and resistance
- How small actions create lasting legacies
- The fragility and resilience of civilization
- Identity, reincarnation, and the persistence of souls
Notable Adaptations
| Year | Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Cloud Atlas (Film) | Directed by the Wachowskis and Tom Tykwer; ensemble cast plays multiple roles across timelines. |
Who should read this book?
- Fans of intricate, multi-layered narratives
- Readers interested in philosophical and historical fiction
- Those who enjoy speculative and dystopian elements