A 1995 review in the book Anatomy of wonder: a critical guide to science fiction described After the Bomb as being "well researched and harrowing" and featuring "attractive characterization". A 1986 review of the book in Fantasy Review by Martha A. Barrter was more critical, however, describing the book as "almost blithely optimistic".
The Anatomy of wonder: a critical guide to science fiction review in 1995 commended After the Bomb as thoroughly researched and emotionally intense, with strong character development. Conversely, Martha A. Barrter's 1986 Fantasy Review evaluation was more dismissive, describing the book as overly hopeful.