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Brief review of Skid by sam
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Skid is an imaginative science fiction novel of
considerable skill that pokes fun at all forms of political correctness,
while also indicating there are dangerous signs of a disintegrating world
that is not adequately taken care of. Readers will recognise these as
parallels to life on earth.
The plot addresses some serious themes, touching on issues as wide as
the survival of any planet in the universe - from pollution, to the
exploitation of natural resources - the pros and cons of collective versus
individual action - organic versus synthetic food - survival with humour
versus the alienating aspects of a form of political correctness.
The use of humour makes the book work effectively - mainly through the
reactions of the "offworlders", Bruce (from New Zealand) and Sue
(from the USA). Both Bruce and Sue react in stereotypical ways as
caricatures of the cultures they come from - the skilful and amusing
portrayal of their characteristics allows readers to laugh at their own
attitudes.
Unlike many science fiction books, skid doesn't get bogged down in
detail or stray so far from known worlds that you lose the plot.
Aficionados of science fiction and anyone who enjoys a good read will enjoy
this novel.
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