This probably qualifies as a reread as I read about 20 years ago. It popped up on a list of the top twenty most banned books – of which Margaret Atwood has two. The other being The Handmaid’s Tale. According to Wikipedia, it’s been banned for “objective sensitive material”.
Oryx and Crake is book one of the MaddAddam trilogy. The main character, Snowman, is living in a post-apocalyptic world with a tribe of genetically engineered creatures he calls Crakers. As the book unfolds, we learn of his life as young Jimmy in a world controlled by corporations, living in controlled compounds. His best friend, Crake, is a scientific genius who gains success and privilege in this world.
Environmental decline and a world-wide plague has wiped out humanity leaving Snowman apparently alone. The need for any supplies drives him to journey into an abandoned compound. During his travels, we learn of the causes of the plague and its emotional and psychological impact on him.
Oryx and Crake feels real at times and well within the realm of possibility. It’s classified as speculative fiction however maybe not? Atwood is one of our greatest living authors today – an excellent writer and storyteller. This is highly recommended.
