This is the most optimistic book I have read from Mr Robinson in a while. As usual, meaty topics are raised and presented for the reader's consideration and thought. In this instance, we have a meditation on how the economic system might be brought back to the control of, and to the benefit of, the plurality of the people. So it is indeed a book for our times.
It is a rather bloated and meandering exploration, through the flooded streets of New York in 2140, where despite the depredations of sea level rise, the Big Apple continues to be a magnet for those huddled masses, yearning to be free. There is a quite large cast of characters, some more likeable or necessary than others. And the authorial voice as the voice of the citizen, fills in the 'state of the world' as it were, for the reader's education. So it does take 300 pages (!!) for the plot to creak into gear.
Most certainly the resolution and hope in the future are tailored to one with my own political views, so I'm rather primed to be satisfied by the path the narrative takes. Hint. If you are a fanboy for the 'wisdom of the market', then perhaps this is not for you. In fact my first reaction to KSRs description of finance 2140 style was to exclaim that despite being knee deep in seawater, nothing had reined in the excess and hubris of the so-called financial wizards.
The novel has been nominated for the 2018 Hugo award. It is in tough company, and despite its comforting SJW tone, won't be rating highly on my ballot.
It is a rather bloated and meandering exploration, through the flooded streets of New York in 2140, where despite the depredations of sea level rise, the Big Apple continues to be a magnet for those huddled masses, yearning to be free. There is a quite large cast of characters, some more likeable or necessary than others. And the authorial voice as the voice of the citizen, fills in the 'state of the world' as it were, for the reader's education. So it does take 300 pages (!!) for the plot to creak into gear.
Most certainly the resolution and hope in the future are tailored to one with my own political views, so I'm rather primed to be satisfied by the path the narrative takes. Hint. If you are a fanboy for the 'wisdom of the market', then perhaps this is not for you. In fact my first reaction to KSRs description of finance 2140 style was to exclaim that despite being knee deep in seawater, nothing had reined in the excess and hubris of the so-called financial wizards.
The novel has been nominated for the 2018 Hugo award. It is in tough company, and despite its comforting SJW tone, won't be rating highly on my ballot.