Science fiction · Dystopian · Adventure
Shift
The middle volume of the Silo series goes back in time to show how the underground silos came to exist. It follows people on both sides of the decisions that put thousands of lives under the earth.
Facts last checked 2026-10-16
- First published
- 2013
- Pace
- Medium
- Length
- Long
- Pages
- 570
- Format
- Book 2 of 3 in Silo
Read this if you enjoyed Wool and want the cold, creeping story of how the world got that way.
Skip this if you want to start the Silo series here, since this book works best after Wool.
The feel
Content warnings
Quick answers about Shift
- What is Shift about?
- The middle volume of the Silo series goes back in time to show how the underground silos came to exist. It follows people on both sides of the decisions that put thousands of lives under the earth.
- Who should read Shift?
- Read it if you enjoyed Wool and want the cold, creeping story of how the world got that way. Skip it if you want to start the Silo series here, since this book works best after Wool.
- How long and how fast is Shift?
- It is a medium-paced, long read of about 570 pages, first published in 2013.
- Does Shift have content warnings?
- Content we flag: Death, Violence, Manipulation.
- Can I borrow Shift for free?
- Often, yes. Check Libby (OverDrive) to see whether your library lends Shift; the borrow button above searches it for you.
- What should I read after Shift?
- Readers who liked it often move on to Wool, Station Eleven, The Giver.
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Where to get it
| Store | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Borrow free | ||
| Libby / OverDrive | Free with a library card | Borrow free with Libby from Libby / OverDrive |
| Print, new | ||
| Amazon | Check price | Buy new from Amazon |
| Ebook | ||
| Kobo | Check price | Buy ebook from Kobo |
| Google Play Books | Check price | Buy ebook from Google Play Books |
| Audiobook | ||
| Audible | Check price | Buy audiobook from Audible |
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If you loved Shift
-
Wool The book that opens the Silo story, tighter and more mystery-driven, and the natural companion to this prequel.
-
Station Eleven
Another look at how ordinary people and institutions fall apart, told with more tenderness.
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The Giver A much shorter story of a controlled society built on a hidden lie.
Science fiction