Before Adam

Before Adam is a book by Jack London, first published in 1907. In this evolutionary adventure novel, the unnamed narrator experiences vivid dreams in which he lives the life of an early hominid known as Big-Tooth. Through these dreams, readers encounter primitive “Cave People,” the more advanced “Fire People,” and the animal-like “Tree People,” each representing stages of early human development.

The story blends thrilling encounters with wild beasts like saber-tooth predators with deeper reflections on instinct, memory, and survival, offering a rich prehistoric narrative that resonates with fans of classic speculative fiction and ancient history fiction.

The vivid portrayal of prehistoric landscapes, physical challenges, and social dynamics among early hominins makes this book ideal for readers interested in evolution literature, primitive life stories, or classic adventure tales rooted in natural history.

Before Adam stands out among London’s works for its imaginative exploration of human origins and prehistoric life. Drawing on themes of Darwinian evolution and ancestral memory, the narrative bridges classic literature and speculative storytelling.