“Stories are where we find ourselves, where we find the others who are like us. Gather enough stories and soon you’re not alone; you are an army.”
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Ok, you’re gonna have to stay with me for a second on this review – this is one of those unusual dystopian books I was obsessed with before I got distracted by all the shiny things on bookstagram. These gems don’t get as much press as they should, they are unique and creative and hold such beautiful messages about humanity. I’m so glad I came across it while browsing in an airport bookstore.
Blackfish City takes place in a floating city in the Arctic that is governed by AI. On the surface, the city is self sustaining but there are issues beginning to creep in as with any grouping of humans. We follow several different residents as the city is thrown into turmoil by the arrival of a woman riding an orca, she is one of the last humans nano-bonded to an animal and the city is concerned. As we follow each of these individuals we learn more about their connection and the possible cure to a devastating disease plaguing the residents of the city.
This story is clever and unique. I must have highlighted dozens of beautiful quotes about what it is to be human. The contrast of the AI and animals bonded to humans really probed the idea of what it is to be human and how easily that definition is misused and misunderstood.
If you’re looking for a book that is unlike any other you’ve ever read, then look no further. What’s the last book you read that was unlike anything you’d ever read before? I need all your weird reccs!
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