Reviewed by: BigAl
Genre: Science Fiction/Post-Apocalyptic/Dystopian
Approximate word count: 100-105,000 words
Availability
Click
on a YES above to go to appropriate page in Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or
Smashwords store
Author:
The author
of children’s and young adult books (some using the pen name Kelley Robinson),
Melody Curtiss has worked as an attorney as well as in many roles aimed at
improving the world around her such as a lobbyist and CEO of a non-profit. For
more, visit her website.
Description:
“In parts
of the world it is dangerous to be female and crazy dangerous to be a feminist.
Supporters of gender equality are being shot, beheaded and stoned to death. 63
countries are at war, 540 armed factions, 15 species will go extinct each and
every day. The polar ice caps are melting. Governments are collapsing.
Imagine a
world united, one with no more war, where we begin to repair the damage we have
done to the planet, where cancer and Alzheimer’s can be cured, where women are
equal and girls can safely walk the street. Now imagine what would really
happen.
Welcome to
Sarah Rosen’s world. After the apocalypse, how will a girl survive?”
Appraisal:
The world
Melody Curtiss imagined for the setting of this book is unique. The story is
post-apocalyptic, yet unlike many books with that premise, the world isn’t
lacking in technology or modern conveniences. At least not completely. Instead
the area where the story takes place (what was formerly the North Western US)
has areas that are settled, with all the things we have today and then some,
and unsettled areas that don’t. The problem is, those more appealing areas also
have laws that limit freedom, especially for women. It is essentially a
dystopian world. Fighting against this system can have severe repercussions.
The author
describes the book as “feminist science fiction,” which is also an applicable
label, as most of the significant characters are females, fighting to increase
their rights in various ways. The protagonist is Sarah Rosen, a young feisty
rebel. Will she be able to make a difference? I enjoyed finding the answer to
that question, never sure how it was going to work out, but eager to see.
Format/Typo Issues:
My review
is based on an advance reader copy. I am unable to judge the final product in
this area.
Rating: **** Four Stars
No comments:
Post a Comment