"The Midwich Cuckoos" is a science fiction novel by John Wyndham, first published in 1957. The story is set in the quiet English village of Midwich, where all the inhabitants fall unconscious for a day. When they awaken, they discover that all the women of childbearing age are pregnant, leading to the birth of strange children with unusual abilities. As the children grow, they exhibit telepathic powers and a collective consciousness, causing fear and tension among the villagers. The novel explores themes of alienation, the nature of humanity, and the consequences of unchecked power, making it a thought-provoking read.