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Cover of Tomorrow the World!

Tomorrow the World!

Written by Robert W. Krepps

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Science FictionAdventure storiesNeanderthals

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About this book

"Tomorrow the World!" by Geoff St. Reynard is a science fiction narrative likely written in the early 1950s. The book explores themes of identity, evolution, and the conflict between different races, particularly the Neanderthal descendants and modern humanity. The story unfolds in a contemporary setting that delves into the primal instincts and memories of a man who experiences an awakening of his ancient heritage after committing an impulsive act of violence. The protagonist, Bill Cuff, is an adventure writer who unwittingly awakens a primal aspect of himself following a violent confrontation with a museum guard, where he discovers he is more than just a man—he is a descendant of the Neanderthals. As the narrative progresses, Cuff grapples with his newfound identity and physical abilities, reflecting on his lineage and the blood-tinged history between humans and Neanderthals. He encounters others like himself, known as the Old Companions, who share his ancient memories and instincts and are planning to reclaim their place in the world. The story culminates in a declaration of war against humanity, as the Neanderthals prepare to rise and assert their dominance, blending elements of horror and science fiction to challenge the concept of what it means to be human.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Tomorrow the World!, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 7 hours
  • intermediate
  • dark
  • mysterious
  • primal

Geoff St. Reynard's "Tomorrow the World!" is a compelling early 1950s science fiction novel that plunges into the profound themes of identity, evolution, and inter-species conflict. The story follows adventure writer Bill Cuff, who, after an impulsive act of violence, awakens dormant Neanderthal instincts and memories, revealing his true ancient lineage. As Cuff grapples with his newfound physical prowess and blood-tinged heritage, he discovers a hidden society of his kind, the 'Old Companions,' who share his primal awakening. The narrative culminates in a chilling declaration of war against modern humanity, as the Neanderthal descendants prepare to reclaim their rightful place, blurring the lines between horror and existential sci-fi.

“The world I thought I knew was merely a thin skin over an older, blood-soaked truth.”

Key themes

Identity and Heritage
The novel deeply explores what constitutes identity, particularly when ancient, genetic heritage clashes with modern upbringing. Bill Cuff's journey is a profound meditation on whether identity is a personal construct or an inherent, primal blueprint passed down through generations. It questions the very essence of 'self' when confronted with a forgotten lineage.
Evolution and Survival
The book challenges the linear, progressive view of evolution, suggesting that a 'vanquished' species might not be truly gone but merely dormant. It explores the ruthless drive for survival and dominance between different 'races' or species, questioning whether humanity's current reign is an absolute or a temporary state in a larger evolutionary struggle.
Primal Instincts vs. Civilization
The book starkly contrasts the raw, instinctual drives of the Neanderthal descendants with the veneer of modern human civilization. It questions whether civilization merely suppresses or truly eradicates humanity's more primal, violent tendencies, and suggests that these instincts may be a source of strength rather than weakness.

Worth discussing

How does Bill Cuff's initial act of violence serve as a catalyst for his transformation, and what does it reveal about his latent nature?

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