Heather’s Bookshelf: An Audience for Einstein
Author: Mark Wakely
Released: 10/27/19
Genre: YA Scifi
“He turned and went to his bed, sat down heavy in the middle of it, turned and went to his bed, sat down heavy in the middle of it, staring straight ahead. When sleep finally caught up to him, he drifted off right where he was, his head bowed down to his chest as if he were ashamed now even in his dreams.”
“An Audience for Einstein” introduces Percival Marlowe, an astrophysicist who is dying before finishing his life’s work. Carl Dorning, a neurosurgeon, discovers a way to transfer memories from one person to another. Now all they need is a volunteer.
Miguel Sanchez, a homeless boy with an abusive father and mother in rehab, agrees to be the recipient of Marlowe’s memories. Dr. Dorning convinces him to do so by promising riches, status and fame. Marlowe is convinced that this is the opportunity he needs to advance his work.
But every decision comes with consequences and Dr. Dorning fails to divulge the full truth of the experiment to Miguel or Percival. When the scientist and the boy finally figure out the truth, they must act quickly —before it’s too late.
Trigger Warning: death, child abuse, substance abuse
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. It was written in a way that was easy to understand and follow, but it was also endearing in the portrayal of the 3 main characters. The plot moved rather quickly and there was very little filler throughout the tale. The character arcs of Miguel and Marlowe were really well done, believable and intriguing. I also liked how the there was a Christmas Carol quality to revealing some of Marlowe’s past and characterization. I really appreciated how each of the main characters had their own motivations, desires, and flaws. There was a thread of moral ambiguity and responsibility throughout the story, but it was really the characters that made the tale. The ending was also completely satisfying, wrapping up each of the storylines without any holes.
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
OVERALL REVIEW:
A fast-paced tale with characters that get you invested from the start and don’t disappoint by the end.
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Check out my interview with Mark Wakely
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