Conference noted::sf

1144.0. "Ian McDonald 'The Broken Land'" by RAGS::GINGRAS () Mon May 24 1993 18:01

'The Broken Land' by Ian McDonald.

I borrowed this out of the library a few months ago and was completely
overwhelmed by the story and writing.
    
The story is set in the far future but the theme is really timeless.
It depicts the struggles of innocent citizens caught in a battle between
a ruthless regime and anti-government rebels.  Neither side has any
feeling for the defenseless masses whose lives are constantly torn apart
by the battle.

A 'Caution - this book can be seriously depressing' sticker should be
attached to the cover due to the nature of the story.  I found it a bit
depressing, but was also fascinated by the protagonist - a teenage girl -
who presses on through it all in an attempt to reunite her family.

I wouldn't overlook this book because of its serious theme, though.  It
has among the best SciFi writing I've encountered in the last year, good
characters, vivid and imaginative scenes, and a truly bizarre ending.
Now that its in mass-market paperback, I intend to get a copy for
re-reading.  There's a lot crammed into the story and I'm sure I've
missed some.

My daughters picked it up one day and read the first line "Grandfather was
a tree".  Now they love to tease me by pointing at trees in the yard and
asking its gender and if its a parent.
_Marty