Ahoy there me mateys! After reading the vatta’s war and the vatta’s peace series, I wanted to check out one of her standalone novels. Apparently this one won the Nebula Award for Best Novel in 2003. I can certainly see why. This novel was heart-warming, thought-provoking, and superb.

Set in our close future, genetic testing and treatment has cured most diseases including autism. But what about those born too late for treatment? This book follows Lou, a high-functioning autistic man who is part of the “missing” generation. He works for a corporation that is promoting a trial of a drug that might cure adult autism. Lou has a good job, friends who care about him, and successfully lives on his own. As ye follow Lou through his daily life ye see how he views himself and how both life and chance of a “cure” influence his self-worth. But what will happen to Lou’s self-identity if he accepts this treatment?

This book is a fantastic look into self-awareness, medical ethics, societal norms, and what makes a person human. It is so well-written. At the beginning, Lou’s thought process seemed so foreign and unusual. By the middle of the book, Lou’s perceptions seemed challenging but valid and sensible. By the end, I just wanted Lou to thrive. At all times, I was engaged and cheering for him and sympathizing with him. Lou was just an exemplary human being.

I really can’t do this justice but think it be one every sci-fi lover should read. Also the author has an autistic son and the author interview at the end of the book was wonderful. This was me 8th book of the year by Ms. Moon and the 11th overall. I will be reading others.

Side note: special thanks to Sarah @ brainfluff for telling me about this author’s sci-fi stories. Arrr!

Check out me other reviews at https://thecaptainsquartersblog.wordpress.com/