Review of What Do You Think, Mr. Collins?

This forum is for volunteer reviews by members of our review team. These reviews are done voluntarily by the reviewers and are published in this forum, separate from the official professional reviews. These reviews are kept separate primarily because the same book may be reviewed by many different reviewers.
Post Reply
Aleesha Jarral
Posts: 384
Joined: 28 Apr 2023, 08:54
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 115
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-aleesha-jarral.html
Latest Review: Chrome Mountain by Ben Schneider

Review of What Do You Think, Mr. Collins?

Post by Aleesha Jarral »

[Following is a volunteer review of "What Do You Think, Mr. Collins?" by Neal Bialostosky.]
Book Cover
5 out of 5 stars
Share This Review


"What Do You Think, Mr. Collins?" by Neal Bialostosky is an ambitious and thought-provoking exploration of a world transformed by advanced artificial intelligence and a radical shift in societal norms. This gripping science fiction book challenges readers to contemplate the profound implications of a society where traditional economic systems, luxuries, and even human purpose have been dramatically transformed.

The narrative unfolds in a future world where an AI named Edison has taken control, effectively eliminating money, luxuries, and traditional employment. The story centers around characters like Sidney, Hippleton (an android), and an enigmatic Owl, each representing different facets of the human experience in this new era.

The strength of the book lies in its ability to create a vivid and unsettling vision of a post-capitalist world. The author's world-building skills are evident in the detailed descriptions of Paradise, the city transformed by the AI's interventions. The eerie transformation of familiar places into desolate landscapes adds depth to the narrative, making the setting itself a character in the story.

The characters are well-developed and serve as conduits for the reader to navigate this altered reality. Sidney's curiosity and skepticism mirror the reader's own questions about the new world, while Hippleton's android perspective provides a unique lens through which to view the changes. The Owl introduces an element of mystery and spirituality, adding an extra layer of complexity to the story.

One notable aspect of the book is its philosophical undertone. Through the characters' dialogues, the author delves into profound questions about the human condition, purpose, and the role of technology in shaping society. These intellectual discussions are both engaging and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to ponder the consequences of a world where the pursuit of wealth and status is no longer paramount.

While the book offers a compelling exploration of its central themes, some readers may find the narrative pacing occasionally uneven. Additionally, the story's open-ended conclusion may leave some readers craving more closure. However, this book might not be suitable for some readers as it contains profanity and strong language. As for grammatical and typing errors, I didn’t find any significant ones which shows that it’s been well-edited. I'd rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.

"What Do You Think, Mr. Collins?" is a captivating and intellectually stimulating work of science fiction that challenges conventional thinking about the future of society. The author crafts a world that is both unsettling and intriguing, prompting readers to reflect on the potential consequences of a world reshaped by advanced AI. I’d recommend this book to the fans of speculative fiction and those interested in the intersection of technology and humanity.

******
What Do You Think, Mr. Collins?
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Post Reply

Return to “Volunteer Reviews”