Review of IslanD-25

[Himanshu K Yadav]

[Following is a volunteer review of "IslanD-25" by Alan Doer.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Alan Doer's IslanD-25 is not your average sci-fi extravaganza. Yes, it is certainly about a utopian society on a distant celestial body, Crystal, but the actual voyage is within the protagonist, Alex.

The novel gives a very precise portrayal of Crystal. Visualize the construction of a delightful and affable world. Technology will be reactive enough to suit your every need, nature will persist in its eternal spring, and meditation can serve both as a social cement and a psychotherapeutic tool. It's a future that eliminates drudgery but raises a fascinating question: Is a life without struggle—what is it if not everything?

Alex is a man who can’t get over the things he’s done wrong in the past and who is striving for a stronger life. With Project D-25 bringing about a seemingly ideal existence within Crystal, Ryan's life suddenly starts to crumble again. However, Doer skillfully describes Alex's inner struggle. He tries to find clarity about his past mistakes, the confusion of love (romantic as well as family), and the persistent anguish over the incompleteness of his artificial world.

Disregard the thoughts of a thorough, action-packed script with laser battles and alien encounters. IslanD-25, as a stage play, is a slow heating of emotions generated by contemplative dialogues and ennobling conversations. The narrative gradually unravels naturally, as if it were Crystal's own tempo. Prepare yourselves to think deeply about the dual nature of reality, the role of existence, and the fine line between societal tranquility and personal achievements. The greatest asset of the book could as well end up being its weak point. The complex world of Crystal is an impressive detail; however, it can seem sterile at times. The area of meditation and self-reflection offers tranquility, but at the same time, it may give the impression of isolation. However, its overall slowness and introspective feeling were flaws I couldn’t relate to. The editing was done immaculately, with no major grammatical mistakes.

It's 5 out of 5 stars for me here. If you are on the lookout for a story that makes you think about basic human qualities while dealing with a quite unusual background, IslanD-25 is a book worth reading. It is a book that will haunt you for a long time even after you have turned the final page, encouraging you to ponder the meaning of your own life, the nature of your relationships, and the pursuit of happiness in the present state of the world.

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IslanD-25
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