The Electric State by Simon Stålenhag

Title: The Electric State
Author: Simon Stålenhag
Publisher: Skybound Books
Genre: Science Fiction, Art Book
Publication Date: September 25, 2018
Pages: 144
ISBN-10: 1501181416
ISBN-13: 978-1501181412​

Summary of The Electric State by Simon Stålenhag

The Electric State is a dystopian science fiction narrative set in an alternate 1997 America. The story follows Michelle, a teenage runaway, and her small yellow toy robot as they journey through a desolate landscape.

The countryside is littered with the remnants of massive battle drones. There are discarded debris of a high-tech consumerist society addicted to a virtual-reality system. As they approach the Pacific coast, the world around them continues to collapse mirroring what is happening with civilization. ​

Main Plot & Characters

• Michelle: A teenage girl on a quest to find her brother.
• Skip: Michelle’s loyal yellow toy robot companion

The book follows Michelle and Skips’ expedition through the abandoned landscapes of the Western United States reveals the consequences of a society’s overdependence on technology and virtual reality.​

Key Themes

• Technological Decay: The novel explores the aftermath of a society that has collapsed under the weight of its own technological advancements.​
• Isolation and Companionship: Amidst the desolation, the bond between Michelle and Skip highlights themes of loyalty and human connection.​
• Reality vs. Virtual Reality: The unchecked influence of a virtual-reality system serves as a cautionary tale about escapism. It reminds readers of the potential consequences of loss of genuine human experiences.​

Writing Style

Stålenhag writes beautifully but what make this book even more special is the use of illustrations. As a reader, you can easily immerse yourself in the world the author has created by combining the text with the images.​

Impact of The Book

The Electric State received critical acclaim for its unique storytelling approach and compelling visuals.

The success of the novel led to a film adaptation directed by the Russo brothers, starring Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt, released on Netflix in March 2025.​

Have you read The Electric State or watched its film adaptation? What are your thoughts on its portrayal of a technology-ravaged world? Share your insights in the comments below!