The Dog Stars is a post-apocalyptic literary novel about grief and renewed connection. After a flu pandemic destroys most of society, Hig lives at an abandoned Colorado airport with his dog Jasper and the armed, distrustful Bangley. When he hears part of a radio transmission, he flies beyond the perimeter they have defended and risks the fragile life they understand.
Original editorial scenes shaped by this novel's setting, mood, and themes.
A grieving survivor who patrols in a small aircraft and still seeks beauty and human connection.
Hig’s closest companion and an emotional link to ordinary life before the pandemic.
A heavily armed pragmatist whose approach to safety contrasts with Hig’s continuing hope.
A person Hig meets after following the possibility of life beyond the airport.
Character notes are limited to names and relationships disclosed by the publisher or author. They avoid unverified fan claims.
Ridley Scott’s 2026 film is based on Peter Heller’s novel but is a screen adaptation with its own performances and production choices. This page describes the book; use the studio page for the film.
Open official pageThe Vintage paperback (ISBN 9780307950475) is 336 pages. The 2012 first edition and later movie-tie-in edition have different identifiers and may paginate differently.
Hig and Bangley survive through a tense division of labour: Hig flies patrols while Bangley secures the ground. A radio signal suggests another community may exist, and Hig chooses uncertainty over permanent isolation.
The Dog Stars was written by Peter Heller. This page links its factual claims to the publisher or author source.
This is a standalone work and can be read without another book first.
The Vintage paperback (ISBN 9780307950475) is 336 pages. The 2012 first edition and later movie-tie-in edition have different identifiers and may paginate differently.
Ridley Scott’s 2026 film is based on Peter Heller’s novel but is a screen adaptation with its own performances and production choices. This page describes the book; use the studio page for the film.
Official adaptation pageNo. The pandemic and violence establish the danger, but the novel also gives sustained attention to landscape, grief, friendship, trust and the possibility of choosing connection again.
Use the Penguin Random House page to see the authorised print, ebook, audiobook or sample options available in your market. NovelRove does not host the book text or unauthorised downloads.
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