Review of IslanD-25
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Wajida Begum
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Review of IslanD-25
[Following is a volunteer review of "IslanD-25" by Alan Doer.]
"IslanD-25" by Alan Doer is a gripping sci-fi novel set in the mid-21st century, envisioning a future where humanity has not only continued its quest for technological advancement but also embarked on the creation of a new world. The book, which I rate a stellar five out of five stars, is a masterpiece of science fiction, flawlessly edited, and its prose glides seamlessly from page to page without a single grammatical hiccup. The narrative is both expansive and intimate, weaving a complex tapestry that explores human relationships, technological ethics, and the philosophical underpinnings of creating a new society from the ground up.
Set in 2050, the novel introduces us to two parallel worlds: Earth, our familiar home, now facing the myriad challenges of mid-21st-century life, and Crystal, a newly formed planet born out of humanity's indomitable will to transcend its terrestrial bounds. At the heart of the story is the mysterious IslanD-25, a significant but enigmatic location that ties the two worlds together and serves as the backdrop for much of the novel's action.
Our protagonist, Alex, is a deeply relatable character, whose personal journey is marked by his attempts to contact his father, Dario, who works for a security company that plays a pivotal role in the narrative. This quest for connection in a rapidly changing world is a theme that resonates throughout the book, as Alex navigates the complexities of relationships, both familial and romantic. His son, Henry, adds another layer to the narrative, offering a multi-generational perspective on the events unfolding.
The storyline intricately dances between the present (2050) and the past (2035), detailing the historical context of Crystal's creation and the pivotal pact that laid down its foundational rules. This narrative technique not only enriches the world-building but also provides a profound commentary on the nature of societal evolution and the constant human endeavor to redefine the boundaries of possibility.
Alex's romantic life, marked by his breakup with Marina and subsequent encounters with various women, adds a personal dimension to the narrative, exploring themes of love, loss, and the search for companionship in an ever-evolving world. His professional involvement in Project D-25, alongside Jasmine—another key character for whom he harbors feelings—serves as the primary conduit through which the novel explores its sci-fi elements, including security malfunctions and the futuristic concept of surveillance.
One of the most compelling aspects of "IslanD-25" is its exploration of how future societies might tackle the inherent issues of security and privacy in an increasingly technologically integrated world. The novel does not shy away from addressing the ethical dilemmas posed by advanced surveillance methods, instead choosing to confront these issues head-on through its characters' experiences and the broader societal implications of their actions.
Furthermore, the inclusion of meditation as a thematic element adds an unexpected yet profoundly resonant layer to the narrative, suggesting a return to introspection and inner peace amidst the chaos of technological progress and societal upheaval. This balance between the external and the internal, the material and the spiritual, elevates "IslanD-25" above mere speculative fiction, positioning it as a thoughtful meditation on the future of humanity.
In conclusion, "IslanD-25" by Alan Doer is a brilliantly crafted novel that succeeds on multiple levels: as a thrilling sci-fi adventure, a deep dive into the potential futures of human society, and a poignant exploration of personal and interpersonal dynamics in a world that is at once familiar and utterly transformed. Its impeccable editing and flawless narrative structure make it a joy to read, while its thematic depth and character development ensure that it leaves a lasting impact on the reader. For anyone interested in the future of humanity, the ethical implications of technological advancement, or simply looking for a compelling story set in a richly imagined world, "IslanD-25" is an essential read. There was nothing I disliked about this book.
******
IslanD-25
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
"IslanD-25" by Alan Doer is a gripping sci-fi novel set in the mid-21st century, envisioning a future where humanity has not only continued its quest for technological advancement but also embarked on the creation of a new world. The book, which I rate a stellar five out of five stars, is a masterpiece of science fiction, flawlessly edited, and its prose glides seamlessly from page to page without a single grammatical hiccup. The narrative is both expansive and intimate, weaving a complex tapestry that explores human relationships, technological ethics, and the philosophical underpinnings of creating a new society from the ground up.
Set in 2050, the novel introduces us to two parallel worlds: Earth, our familiar home, now facing the myriad challenges of mid-21st-century life, and Crystal, a newly formed planet born out of humanity's indomitable will to transcend its terrestrial bounds. At the heart of the story is the mysterious IslanD-25, a significant but enigmatic location that ties the two worlds together and serves as the backdrop for much of the novel's action.
Our protagonist, Alex, is a deeply relatable character, whose personal journey is marked by his attempts to contact his father, Dario, who works for a security company that plays a pivotal role in the narrative. This quest for connection in a rapidly changing world is a theme that resonates throughout the book, as Alex navigates the complexities of relationships, both familial and romantic. His son, Henry, adds another layer to the narrative, offering a multi-generational perspective on the events unfolding.
The storyline intricately dances between the present (2050) and the past (2035), detailing the historical context of Crystal's creation and the pivotal pact that laid down its foundational rules. This narrative technique not only enriches the world-building but also provides a profound commentary on the nature of societal evolution and the constant human endeavor to redefine the boundaries of possibility.
Alex's romantic life, marked by his breakup with Marina and subsequent encounters with various women, adds a personal dimension to the narrative, exploring themes of love, loss, and the search for companionship in an ever-evolving world. His professional involvement in Project D-25, alongside Jasmine—another key character for whom he harbors feelings—serves as the primary conduit through which the novel explores its sci-fi elements, including security malfunctions and the futuristic concept of surveillance.
One of the most compelling aspects of "IslanD-25" is its exploration of how future societies might tackle the inherent issues of security and privacy in an increasingly technologically integrated world. The novel does not shy away from addressing the ethical dilemmas posed by advanced surveillance methods, instead choosing to confront these issues head-on through its characters' experiences and the broader societal implications of their actions.
Furthermore, the inclusion of meditation as a thematic element adds an unexpected yet profoundly resonant layer to the narrative, suggesting a return to introspection and inner peace amidst the chaos of technological progress and societal upheaval. This balance between the external and the internal, the material and the spiritual, elevates "IslanD-25" above mere speculative fiction, positioning it as a thoughtful meditation on the future of humanity.
In conclusion, "IslanD-25" by Alan Doer is a brilliantly crafted novel that succeeds on multiple levels: as a thrilling sci-fi adventure, a deep dive into the potential futures of human society, and a poignant exploration of personal and interpersonal dynamics in a world that is at once familiar and utterly transformed. Its impeccable editing and flawless narrative structure make it a joy to read, while its thematic depth and character development ensure that it leaves a lasting impact on the reader. For anyone interested in the future of humanity, the ethical implications of technological advancement, or simply looking for a compelling story set in a richly imagined world, "IslanD-25" is an essential read. There was nothing I disliked about this book.
******
IslanD-25
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: Sojourner To Stoner by Gordon Schwerzmann
