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"Oneiro" is a fast-paced techno thriller filled with credible and meaningful scientific detail. John Stuart Goldenberg describes his novel as "hard" science fiction "based on actual science, or educated conjecture." His impeccable research into genetics and reproductive biology makes the situations plausible; the novel's scientific premises raise significant questions about the future of the human race to create a fantastical and riveting storyline. Three sequels are planned to continue this triumphant scientific and philosophical tour-de- force.
Oneiro
John Stuart Goldenberg
BookSurge (2008)
ISBN 9781419693830
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (4/09)
When attorney Philip Carr is offered what appears to be the perfect job, on a private Greek island, he jumps at the chance. Leaving his Manhattan life behind, things seem pretty idyllic at first. The island contains both natural beauty and incredible technological advances in both the people and the structures. As Philip learns more about the research that is going on, he is faced with issues that involve many areas including bio-ethics. He also learns more about himself and why he was chosen for the position.
“Oneiro” is an incredibly well-written science fiction novel. It is the first in a four-part series. The author John Stuart Goldenberg manages to blur the edges of real science with science fiction, so the reader is left wondering what is real and what is fictional. The story itself is vividly written so that the reader really can so what is happening. The technological advances are described in such a way that they appear to be incredibly fantastic at times and at other times, incredibly scary, because they leave you with the question of “What if?”
As a matter of fact, as I was enjoying the story, in the back of my mind, I was pondering this question. Forcing human evolution can definitely have some unusual consequences. Creating incredible technology that can solve the world’s problems such as food shortages and oil depletion makes for more of a fantastic story, however, as in the book, not everyone in the world is receptive to positive change, especially if it affects their wallets. In spite of the fantasticalness of the story, I think that the events that occur would be very realistic considering how our world is today. I also really enjoyed the philosophical discussions as they were written. The author definitely gave me some things to think about regarding my own spiritual beliefs.
I highly recommend that people who enjoy science fiction novels that have depth read this novel, “Oneiro,” by John Stuart Goldenberg. It will be refreshing for them to find a new science fiction author to get hooked on!
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