Friday Feature - "The Speed of Dark"

Friday Feature is where we share books we love that have been out for several years. We don't want these treasures to get lost just because they aren't babies anymore!

The Speed of Dark

by Elizabeth Moon

Published June 28, 2005

369 pages

Thoughtful, poignant, and unforgettable, The Speed of Dark is a gripping exploration into the world of Lou Arrendale, an autistic man who is offered a chance to try an experimental "cure" for his condition. Now Lou must decide if he should submit to a surgery that may change the way he views the world—and the very essence of who he is.

                                                                             ***

This novel is considered science fiction because it deals with a "cure" that doesn't exist, but that's only the backdrop to a story that's very much about what makes me "me." How do we define ourselves? Are there things about ourselves that, if given the opportunity, we would "fix?" Do we think it needs fixing?

This story is told from the point of view of the functionaly autistic Lou. One might get worried about it being difficult to relate to because of that; but Moon is so masterful, you forget that it's in the voice of someone who sees things differently than most.

It's powerful, but not heavy! There's humor, and wit, goodness, and friendships. There's heavier thoughts as well, but it's perfectly balanced.

This is a fascinating read, but it isn't just cerebral - you truly care about the characters and their choices and the inevitable consequences.

Easily 5/5 stars!