June2014: I wasn't expecting a sci-fi book at all. Well, I'm not sure if it's actually considered sci-fi but it's definitely science based. I loved that I didn't feel over my head with technological terms and language. Joshua is working a new job recording and documenting the development of a new animatronics program. When the program is complete, the images are as sharp and clear as real life. Everyone on the team is excited and thrilled; they can't wait to see it put to actual use. During their celebration the scene changes on the screen where the images are being played. At that moment, everyone's lives are forever changed. the story takes place in 2012 but the futuristic ideas of the program and technology are both insightful and scary.
What I really liked and maybe I'm reading too much into it, were the names of the characters: Pinkus, Cosmo, Dak...I felt they were intentionally chosen but I haven't truly looked into that. The story is easy to follow with Joshua's narration. He is honest and straightforward. The book is vivid and thought provoking. Many questions could be brought up and discussed. Definitely a good quick read, even better for a book club selection.
The Gift of Fire
21Nov2014: WELL! This book pulled me in from the very beginning. It slightly references Greek mythology and the history of Prometheus. Mosley has placed Prometheus in the streets of South Central L.A. As in the myth, Prometheus is bound by chains but he is in a county jail. He meets Nosome Blane as he's analyzing what Man has done with the gift of fire he gave them so long ago. When he is released he looks for Nosome and when he finds him, Nosome is never again the same person. Pretty much anyone Prometheus meets during his short stay on earth is eternally affected. When he meets paralyzed and bed ridden Chief Reddy, Prometheus knows he has found someone extraordinary. He gives Chief his powers and knowledge. Chief is now healed and becomes a street pastor, healing the lives of strings across the country. There are other folks trying to bring him down and prevent him from spreading empowerment and knowledge to the communities. The language Mosley uses reminds me so much of the Civil Rights Movement. I would periodically think of great black men in our history. How they were revered by the community and feared by the government. "He is the heart and soul of the movement, sir. His demise will break the heart in them."
Walter Mosley amazes me with every book I read. Bravo!
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