Children of Men is set in a period in time when humanity is cursed with infertility. It has been fifteen years since anyone has heard the cry of a newborn baby. Scientists are at a loss on finding a cure and people have turned to cults in search of meaning and purpose. Democracies have turned into dictatorial regimes; crimes and immorality are at an all-time high.
Theo, the protagonist, is a middle-aged man who is currently divorced and works in a job he detests. After his daughter died, Theo became cold and distant which ultimately led to his divorce. With this introduction, the author, P.D. James sets the scene that stimulates the reader’s thoughts and curiosity.
In the next section, James describes Theo’s current emotional, social and political view of the world. James describes Theo’s nihilism as his current link to the present. Theo feels nothing and prefers a hangover over transcending. As the novel progresses, James introduces powerful events in Theo’s life that shake his beliefs and stimulate a sense of responsibility for humanity.
An anti-governmental group led by Theo’s former student, Julian, kidnaps him and asks him to contribute to their fight for new national reforms. Julian is aware of the close relationship between Theo and his cousin, Xan, the current dictator. Julian implores Theo to speak to his cousin and relay their demands but he refuses.
As the novel progresses, the group finds Theo but this time Julian is pregnant; the first pregnancy in over a decade and a symbol of hope and joy for humanity. It is at this moment that Theo transforms. Theo embarks on a new path of hope, growth, and determination. He fights tirelessly to protect the lives of the unborn baby and its mother, even killing his beloved cousin Xan.
In the final chapter of the book, the author indicates a new beginning for the world. Theo claims the role of ruler and vows to protect the firstborn son of a new generation.
