Reviewed by: Sooz
Genre: Science Fiction/Dystopian
Approximate word count: 60-65,000 words
Availability
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on a YES above to go to appropriate page in Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or
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Author:
Fiona Faith
Ross is an English teacher with an interest in science and technology. She
lives in the UK.
Description:
Saffron has
to figure out how to live in the Seawood Slum without going crazy. She takes care
of her father and friends. But when her father stays out longer than he intends
on one of his mysterious trips, he misses the patrol check-in, which sets in
motion a life Saffron never imagined.
Appraisal:
The future
never looks bright. There is a huge gap between the have and have-nots, life is
a struggle with a constant surveillance to ensure you're following the
rules.
But ... but
there is always some semblance of hope.
Far Out is another book that takes place in
a dystopian future. Problems arose from issues with genetically modified food
and overpopulation where the world’s economy collapsed. Now, herbal studies is
one of the great careers as the earth slowly becomes sustainable again.
Saffron is
the main character. She worries about her father who seems to leave for days at
a time while on a secret mission. She doesn't ask too many questions because
she wants to have plausible deniability if the patrol ever finds out.
Saffron
soon learns there is whole world out there that is working against the machines
-- oh, I forgot to mention that machines tend to rule with humans following
their whims. Man vs. machine -- another common theme found in Far Out.
The book,
however, focuses on Saffron's growth. She's 17 years old and at a crossroads in
life. She has spent her life taking care of her father and those around her
without giving much thought to herself. It's apparent early on when she gets a
dog and would sooner give the puppy the last of the food without eating
anything for herself.
But like
many teenagers, she suffers from rash and impulsive feelings. As Saffron
realizes the world is bigger and badder than the slum she is living in, her
views tend to change. Life isn't just about her anymore, but finding people who
might make the world a bit brighter, including friends and lovers.
Even in a
dystopian world, Saffron can find some joy as she learns about life and love
through family and new friends.
Format/Typo Issues:
No issues.
Rating: ****Four Stars
2 comments:
Thank you a million. Cloud Nine ain't high enough.
:) You're very welcome.
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