Another Quick Geeky Recommendation

The Far Shore, Glenn Damato

I think I've found a 2020 Dragon Award contender for the science fiction category.

(Though, of course, the year of eligibility is still young.)

When the novel opens, we are introduced to a near-future dystopia that is clearly inspired by China's developing surveillance state. Drones watch the characters 24/7, and each individual has a social credit score that rises or falls based on his or her willingness to go along with the global superstate's propaganda. But we don't linger on "Harmony" for very long because the real point of the story is escaping -- by establishing a foothold on Mars.

First winning feature: the science fiction in this is very hard. I'm no expert, but the technology the main characters use to accomplish their mission - and the various threats to their lives that arise as the plot unfolds - feels plausible. In that way, it reminds me of The Martian -- and we all know how much I love that particular yarn!

(Actually, I don't think it would be out-of-bounds to describe this book as a response to The Martian. At the very least, Damato gets the air pressure thing correct.)

Second winning feature: diversity done right! The point-of-view character is a young Hispanic woman - and the others on the mission hail from every corner of the globe - but Damato doesn't belabor that point. Instead, he writes actual characters with human personalities and human foibles and avoids obnoxious self-congratulation.

Third positive feature: honesty. Damato makes it very clear that choosing freedom is riskier. When people are free, they disagree. They make bad choices. They put themselves in danger. But freedom is still presented as the preferable course because it comes with purpose. Unlike the citizens of Harmony, who spend their days listless (and, in many cases, high), the young folks on Mars will find the challenge we all need to feel truly fulfilled.

So yes: The Far Shore gets my highest recommendation. It does have some cursing and some implied sexual situations, so I wouldn't give it to the younger set. But anyone who's 13 or older and loves liberty will find this book a rousing choice.