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The Machine Stops cover

Fiction1909E. M. Forster

The Machine Stops

CONVINCE ME

“A story to explore beyond the familiar shortlist. Read its synopsis, see what catches your curiosity, and bring your take back to the pool.”

— Founder pick

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tadhgreads_68 · 14 Oct 2026, 12:10 UTC

Interested in The Machine Stops, especially with E. M. Forster behind it. Is there a particular edition worth finding?

sineadreads · 15 Oct 2026, 01:10 UTC

Tadhg, that is what I like about a shortlist. It makes me stop endlessly browsing and actually choose.

saoirsereads_73 · 14 Oct 2026, 16:10 UTC

The Machine Stops is one I am weighing up. Could someone add a spoiler-free note about the opening? That is usually what helps me choose.

darragh_quinn · 15 Oct 2026, 06:10 UTC

Saoirse, that is a good way of choosing. I tend to match the pick to the evening as well.

eimearfitzgerald · 14 Oct 2026, 20:10 UTC

For anyone considering The Machine Stops: Keeping this on the list for a quieter evening rather than trying to squeeze it in.