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 found After the Bomb to be meticulously researched and profoundly moving, with well-developed characters. In contrast, Martha A. Barrter's 1986 Fantasy Review assessment was more negative, suggesting an overly optimistic tone.