| Author | John Barnes |
|---|---|
| Cover artist | Craig White |
| Language | English |
| Series | Daybreak |
| Genre | Science fiction novel |
| Publisher | Ace Hardcover |
Publication date | 2010 |
| Publication place | United States |
| Media type | Print (Hardcover) |
| Followed by | Daybreak Zero |
Directive 51 is a science fiction novel by John Barnes. It is the first of three books collectively entitled the Daybreak series. The title is a reference to Directive 51, the Presidential directive setting out government procedures in the event of a "catastrophic emergency".