Who Wants to Live Forever: A Mesmerizing Debut that Probes Life and Existence
When I first stumbled upon Who Wants to Live Forever by Allyson Michalitsianos, I was instantly intrigued by its bold premise: a drug that promises to extend our lives by a staggering 200 years. As someone who often muses over the implications of immortality, I knew this book would resonate deeply. It turns out, this literary speculative-fiction debut is not just about life extension—it’s a multifaceted exploration of human choices, societal norms, and ethical dilemmas.
Set in London, Tokyo, and California, the narrative spans multiple character perspectives and timelines, painting a rich tapestry of emotions and circumstances that feel strikingly real. Yuki and Sam, a married couple navigating their routines and aspirations, serve as our primary lenses into this thought-provoking world. While Yuki enthusiastically joins the protest against the drug, Sam wrestles with the temptation to embrace it. This divergence sets the stage for the heart of the narrative: what do we value more—time or the essence of living authentically?
One of the book’s most commendable aspects is its nuanced exploration of moral and ethical issues surrounding the drug and its implications. Michalitsianos skillfully avoids melodrama while prompting us to examine various perspectives. I found myself pondering what I might do in each character’s position. The author crafts a vivid array of characters—different races, backgrounds, and motivations—allowing for a rich dialogue on how life and choices intersect across cultural lines.
The writing itself is compelling, though it maintains a deliberate pace that may not appease all readers. Although I appreciated the time jumps and clever marker phrases that delineated shifts in time, following the narrative through audio made it somewhat challenging. The narrator, Lydia Wilson, provided a soft and subtle performance, but given the complexity of the timelines and character switches, I occasionally found the story’s gravity diluted.
While the book excels in its exploration of deeply felt themes without becoming too dramatic, the ending left me feeling a mix of emotions that I’m still unraveling. I won’t spoil it, but let’s just say it evokes a visceral response that’s hard to ignore. Perhaps that’s Michalitsianos’ intention—to leave us dazed, questioning our own definitions of fulfillment and existence.
Who Wants to Live Forever is a powerful read for those who thrive on character-driven narratives rich in philosophy and moral inquiry. It’s not a conventional romance, so if you’re looking for heart-fluttering moments, this might not be your cup of tea. However, for anyone curious about the intersections of humanity, life, and the choices that define us, this book is a tour de force.
In conclusion, while I grapple with some aspects of the writing—especially the pacing in the final quarter and the conclusion itself—this debut novel impressively bridges speculative fiction with the gritty realities of life’s choices. It’s a compelling invitation to reflect on our own lives and what we would do if given the chance at immortality. For this reason, I highly recommend it to fans of literary fiction who don’t shy away from a cerebral challenge.
What would you do if a life-extending drug were at your fingertips? This book will certainly make you consider your answer.
Rating: 4.25 stars.
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