The postemail book

You're referring to "The Postman" by David Brin!

Published in 1985, "The Postman" is a science fiction novel that tells the story of a young man named Abby, who becomes the postman in a post-apocalyptic world. The novel is set in the United States, where a devastating war has wiped out most of the population, and society has collapsed.

The story follows Abby as he travels across the country, delivering mail and messages to small communities and settlements. Along the way, he encounters various groups of survivors, some friendly and others hostile. As he navigates this new world, Abby begins to rebuild and restore the postal system, which becomes a symbol of hope and connection in a world that has lost its way.

The novel explores themes of community, resilience, and the power of communication in the face of adversity. It's a thought-provoking and engaging read that has become a classic of the science fiction genre.

In 1997, a film adaptation of "The Postman" was released, starring Kevin Costner as the postman. While the movie received mixed reviews, the novel remains a beloved and influential work in the science fiction community.