Review by GalbaKor -- Heaven and Earth by Arturo Riojas

[GalbaKor]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Heaven and Earth" by Arturo Riojas.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Heaven and Earth is a science fiction book written by the scientist and now author, Arturo Riojas, however it differs somewhat from your atypical science fiction book due to multiple included scientific appendices and the very reason for this books creation - to raise awareness of Cadmium poisoning. Overall I found the book very enjoyable, the research into Cadmium, where it is found and its effects, is fascinating and certainly thought provoking.

While the book is indeed intended to raise awareness for the effects of Cadmium, Arturo does not forget to entertain as well as enlighten the reader - the sci-fi element of the novel follows the journey of a hulking insect looking alien called Nivla, who is on an esoteric mission into the depths of an FBI lab to find the remains of his dead brother. However, he, or it, needs human assistance to locate and retrieve the body. Enter Olga Ramos, NASA Aeronautical Engineer. Scientist, joker and overall a lovable character. It is through this character that we both learn more about Cadmium and learn more about the untrustworthy nature of the FBI. Yes, not only is this book a science fiction narrative of an alien retrieving his dead brother from Earth, an academically driven moral based on Cadmium poisoning, but there is also plenty of societal critique to get your teeth into. This book has a little something for everyone, the nerd, the geek and the social critique.

The narrative of these two very different individuals is masterfully encapsulated in an excellent descriptive style, clearly backed by accurate academic facts and layered with an insightful, thought provoking social examination. My favourite quote from the book might help portray this last thought; "We must realize that what gives our lives and the lives of any life-form meaning is the impact that we make during the span of a lifetime." Truer words have never been spoken.

Another interesting concept is that Arturo ties in the fundamental beliefs of his main character with a growing issue in the health service: we look for symptoms rather than causes. Olga - aka "Miss cause and effect" represents the true method of diagnosing a disease or other problem. It sparks an invaluable discussion on whether we should continue to divert resources from treating symptoms to instead researching underlying causes. Arturo essentially tells the reader that diabetes, cancers etc are all symptoms. They in themselves are not the cause of symptoms experienced by patients, but are instead caused by Cadmium poisoning.

In conclusion, I found the book thought provoking, professionally edited, entertaining to read with strongly constructed characters and an excellent narrative. I rate this book a 4 out of 4 stars, pick it up, read it.

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Heaven and Earth
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