This book takes place in the near future. America is at war,
deeply in debt to China, the National Guard is on every corner and people are
rioting in Central Park. Privacy doesn’t exist. Everyone carries an äppärät, a
smart phone like device that streams personal info to anyone who wants to know,
rates your health, sex appeal—even your performance as a lover—credit rating
and so on. All you have to do is point it at someone. Youth is worshipped,
everyone is obsessed with death. Enter 39 year old Lenny, out of shape, balding
and unattractive who after a semi one night stand—a lot of alcohol was involved—falls
madly and instantly in love with 24 year old Eunice. Both are born of immigrant
families, both have serious family issues and suffer from a lack of self-esteem.
Lenny convinces her to move in with him.
This was a must read because it was a book club selection.
Only one member showed up and I have no doubt it was because of the book choice
(minus the four members who are out of town). And that’s too bad. Because after
several starts and put downs, I eventually got to the place where I read it in
one sitting. And it is sad. But more than that it’s scary. Because the scenario
presented doesn’t feel impossible. Indeed it feels like we’re on our way
already.
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely. Even though only
one member attended we had a rousing hour long discussion. And like me she also
picked up then put down the book several times before she eventually read it.
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