The trick to looking into the future isn’t so much what is imagined but projecting what is around today and what it would look like in ten, twenty or fifty years’ time. Court of the Grandchildren is set about thirty years from now with a central climate change theme.
The younger generation are living in a mess of a world ruined by ‘burners’ (old people). Artificial intelligence and lifelike androids are pervasive in society and life. Following a catastrophic ‘natural’ disaster, people from coastal cities are fleeing inland seeking housing, employment and security.
In her mid-20’s, Lily Miyashiro is more at ease than others of her generation in coping with the hardships caused by her parents’ generation.
In contrast, all David Moreland wants to do is die and has contacted Lily because she’s his last living relative and can give permission for an assisted death.
In his 90’s and cared for by an android, David has been called to appear in the Climate Court and answer questions about his actions in negotiating climate emissions during his career.
This is a compelling and quick read.
I liked how the future of today was introduced and the scenario explained, the interplay between David and Lily, the gradual revealing of their backgrounds, what happened to their respective families, the struggles, the alternative viewpoints, and the ending.
More could have been written about how the future generation was trying to fix the situation.
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review by Odyssey Books.
