MADreads

What if the Stars Went Out?

May 27th, 2006 Gregg - Sequoya

In Spin, Robert Charles Wilson looks at how we’d react if that happened. Earth is placed behind a cosmic barrier, where time is slowed relative to the outside world. The sun and stars disappear, but artificial sunlight is allowed through. Satellite communications cease. Is it the hand of the divine or an alien intelligence? Wilson explores this big idea through three childhood friends, fraternal twins Jason and Diane Lawton, and the son of their housekeeper, narrator Tyler Dupree. Through their eyes we see how humanity comes to grips with its extraordinary situation. And what I liked about this novel is that the characters drive the story, so much so that it will appeal to those who are not fans of traditional science fiction.  And never fear there are enough big ideas and scientific speculation in the background to satisfy any SF buff.Š

Entry Filed under: Science Fiction