Fablewright's prose is both engaging and challenging, seamlessly weaving together fictional narrative, historical facts, and scientific concepts, all while making complex ideas accessible without oversimplification. Edward muses on such concepts as the immortality of lobsters, atom-sharing, and the symbiosis between viruses and human survival, prompting readers, also, to ruminate on the twists and turns that comprise this life. Humor woven throughout balances the weightier themes amidst the layers of critical thinking and philosophical prowess, played out in Edward’s rambling conversations with his friend, Albert, where the two probe the limits of the “human machine,” comparing life to children’s board games and wondering if God is more “science geek” or “dictator.”
Readers will be immersed in Edward’s thought processes throughout the lofty narrative, and, though the novel's philosophical digressions may occasionally disrupt the flow, they ultimately contribute to its unique charm. Whether Edward is analyzing his seemingly pointless daily proceedings—questioned by Albert if “survival without purpose might only be consumption”—or working to understand that “purpose is the difference between filling in time and making a difference,” those readers willing to embrace the novel’s unconventional structure will be rewarded with a richly contemplative reading experience.
Takeaway: Intellectually stimulating journey that embraces the wonders of human existence.
Comparable Titles: Jostein Gaarder's Sophie's World, Sigrid Nunez’s The Vulnerables.
Production grades
Cover: B+
Design and typography: A-
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A-
Marketing copy: A
