5 stars – S Garriott
For many die-hard science fiction readers like me, the one factor defining the genre is the question of what makes us human. The old masters of the art–Asimov, Clarke, Heinlein, and Bradbury–regularly answered that question using robots, trans-humans, and even Martians. My favorite novels tend to fall into that category, and I’ve added new writers to my list, which now includes Gibson and Bacigalupi. This is my first experience with Ms. Morris’ fiction (I am well-acquainted with her book and blog on writing). I’m glad to say that she has produced a wonderful, intimate fable using her non-human representatives, the bods, as a mirror to see what we may have sacrificed, what we have become, and to what dreams we still have a chance to attain as human beings. From the first lightning strike (reminiscent of “Johnny Five”), a very special bod, Paftoo, leads us on a journey of discovery as he pursues passions only a select few believe he should have. Along the way, he acquaints us with others who inhabit his world, a world almost entirely devoid of human beings who are little more than minds ushered around in special cars, isolated from the physical world. These are characters–bods and lifeforms–I really cared about. Her writing is lyrical and beautifully visual. It is the hallmark of effective writing. Whenever I read online site content, especially dealing with writing, I always wonder if the content provider really practices what he or she preaches. Can she pull it off? I’m glad to report that Roz Morris definitely knows what she’s talking about. I will be recommending this book to others, including those who may not be fans of science fiction. I would be proud to use this novel as an introduction to the genre.
Lifeform Three 