Book Trivia Questions about oryx and crake
Whether you’re obsessed with dystopian fiction, fascinated by genetic engineering gone wrong, or curious why this novel is both beloved and banned, test your knowledge with these dark, eerie, and thought‑provoking Oryx and Crake trivia questions - the perfect challenge for book clubs, podcast listeners, and fans of Margaret Atwood’s speculative worlds.
For full audio trivia, deep-dives, and exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, listen to our Oryx and Crake podcast episode- featuring Margaret Atwood facts, banned book stories, and the science behind this unforgettable dystopia.
Oryx and Crake Book Club & Trivia Questions
What is Snowman’s real name before the apocalypse?
Jimmy.
Which two characters form the central triangle with Snowman?
Oryx and Crake.
What type of bioengineered humans does Crake create?
The Crakers.
What is Crake’s original name before he renames himself after a bird?
Glenn.
What animal are “pigoons,” and why were they created?
Genetically modified pigs grown to provide human organ transplants.
What kind of catastrophe wipes out most of humanity?
A man-made pandemic spread through a “miracle” pharmaceutical product.
Why does Atwood prefer to call the novel “speculative fiction” instead of “science fiction”?
Because all the technologies in the book are based on real or emerging science, just pushed a bit further.
What do the Crakers eat and how are they designed to live?
They’re herbivores, biologically engineered to thrive peacefully in the wild without technology.
Which real-world issues are major themes in Oryx and Crake?
Climate change, corporate power, bioethics, and the commodification of life.
Why is Oryx and Crake often discussed during Banned Books Week?
It has been repeatedly challenged and banned in U.S. school districts for its violence and sexual content.
Which trilogy does Oryx and Crake begin?
The MaddAddam trilogy.
What narrative structure does the novel use to reveal the pre-apocalyptic world?
Snowman’s present-tense survival intercut with flashbacks to his past with Oryx and Crake.
What role does online content and internet culture play in Jimmy and Crake’s youth?
They bond over violent, exploitative, and disturbing websites that shape their views of humanity.
FAQ
What makes good Oryx and Crake trivia questions?
The best questions highlight Snowman, Oryx, and Crake’s relationships, the bioengineered world (pigoons, Crakers), and themes like genetic engineering, climate collapse, and corporate greed - linking Atwood’s fiction to real scientific and ethical debates.
Can I use these questions for book clubs or literature trivia nights?
Yes. These Oryx and Crake trivia questions are ideal for book clubs, podcast fans, banned-book events, and dystopian fiction quizzes - especially for readers who enjoy discussing ethics, science, and censorship.
Is the difficulty beginner-friendly?
Yes - this quiz mixes core plot points, iconic worldbuilding details, and deeper thematic questions, so both first-time readers and Atwood superfans can play along and still learn something new.
Want the Full Experience?
Dive deeper into romantic drama, British humor, and Dodie Smith’s creative journey in our podcast’s full episode: