Child 44

Child 44, a novel by Tom Rob Smith, should be of interest to many as it is not only a political novel portraying oppression in a personal way, but a fascinating thriller, as well.

I found it interesting on several levels. It demonstrates the tendency of cruelty and brutality to rise to top levels in a totalitarian government. The 'State' is more about protecting its totalitarianism than its citizens.

Informers, even of untruths, are rewarded. Dissenters, or those perceived to be, are punished, often severely and often at the whim of the enforcers. This breeds disloyalty and betrayal of family and neighbors just to obtain the needs to survive, because the 'State' provides on the basis of acceptance and adherence to the rules.

Inevitably, the system gains a life of its own and even the enforcers may fall victim to whispers or accusations. Everyone is in fear of falling under suspicion.

But this book also illustrates love, as opposed to romance, loyalty and enmity, and survival and betrayal. It presents mysteries, family disturbances, and dogged persual of redemption.

I highly recommend this book.

Every American should read it.

OofDah, it is a good read.