Imagine a world where our choices are limited and our lives are set on a predetermined path. What if everyone had universal childcare? After a year maternity leave your child would be placed in care, like everyone no matter your economic status.
What if you had to be depended on to matter? If you were childless or anyone else who loved you or needed you, you were “dispensable”. Being dispensable meant that you were at a predetermined age, removed from society and placed in The Unit, where you could serve your society through participating in research and donating your organs.
Ninni Holmquist explore these what if’s in her novel, “The Unit“. When I started the book, I wasn’t sure I would really get into the story. The main character wasn’t someone I normally connect with, yet as the story progressed I was engrossed in the story and the characters. The story set in the future, reflects the possibilities of our future when we are complacent and apathetic when it comes to our politics in our country. Allowing laws to be placed upon us, slip by us quietly that could change our society completely. I certainly would not want my opportunity to stay at home with my children to be taken from me by my government.
The novel gave me so much to think about. Particularly of the aging population, what defines value in a human being and politics as it raw and dirtiest. Ninni Holmquist is Swedish author, this is her first novel in English. It was a unique experience for me to read and international author in this way. It really demonstrates how the human plight is universal. I totally enjoyed The Unit by Ninni Holmquist, especially since it pushed me out of my book reading comfort zone.
Have you read a good book lately?
A Canadian mom with three cute kids. This blog chronicles our lives my creative pursuits. 
Ohhh sounds quite freaky!
I read an surprisingly good book – I had no idea what it would be about and had never heard of the author. Found it at an op-shop for 20c. It’s called The Bordeaux Housewives and is by Daisy Waugh.
Gail´s last blog ..Eight x Eight
Thanks for the review! This book seems like it might resonate with the ideas in THE HANDMAID’S TALE…
I recently read Colm Toibin’s BROOKLYN and luffffed it: no pretense, no firworks or showoffy gags or techniques…just great writing in a quiet story. I think that’s the hardest thing to do, frankly.
Jocelyn´s last blog ..
I’ve been reading through books I got through the library sale – $1 a bag. An odd assortment, all fine, but nothing smashing.
I’m reading to James Alice in Wonderland. I had never read it myself. We’re both enjoying it, not loving, but enjoying, although it took him about 3?4? chapters to get into it.
Holly´s last blog ..Be careful what you wish for
I definitely want to read this one. Sounds scary, yet, so….entirely possible. Thanks for the review!