Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Review of "The Speed of Dark" by Elizabeth Moon

On Monday, December 3, the Books for Lunch group will be discussing Elizabeth Moon's novel "The Speed of Dark." I read this novel a few years ago and, when the Books for Lunch group said they wanted to try something that was an easy read but had a little more depth, this title came to mind.

Elizabeth Moon is known for writing science fiction novels. This novel is technically science fiction as it is set in the future. It is much more than your typical science fiction fare, however. It is the early 21st-century in America and the business world is even more ruthless. Lou Arrendale is well compensated for his remarkable pattern-recognition skills, enjoys his job and expects never to lose it. But he has a new boss, a man who thinks Lou and the others in his building are a liability. Lou and his coworkers are autistic. And the new boss is going to fire Lou and all his coworkers--unless they agree to undergo an experimental new procedure to "cure" them. This novel insightfully explores the nature of “normality,” identity, choice, responsibility, free will, illness and health, and good and evil. Join us on Monday, December 3 at 12:00 noon as we talk about this powerful and moving novel.


"The Speed of Dark" was also selected as the 2004 United We Read selection for the Kansas City Libraries. Find out more at http://http//www.speedofdark-thebook.com/

A reading group guide for this book can be found at http://http//www.readinggroupguides.com/guides3/speed_of_dark1.asp There is also a guide for "The Speed of Dark" on NoveList, which can be accessed through the library website.

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