China Mountain Zhang
by Maureen F. McHugh
Publication
details:
ISBN: 0312860968
Paperback
313 pages
McHugh,
Maureen F. China Mountain Zhang, Orb
books, 1997.
This is a
story about the minutiae of daily life, its small struggles and successes. It imagines
a future where communist China has become the next global superpower. Rafael
Zhang, a young Chinese American, lives in 22nd century America,
where being gay is illegal.
With
enough jargon to satisfy even the most voracious of science fiction fanatics;
its vivid descriptions of landscapes and people; its exotic, political
settings; and its stark, philosophical tone, this is a novel that transcends
the science fiction genre to reach new heights. Although the non-linear plot
and lack of action could lead to boredom and abandonment, the lavish detail,
realistic world-building and lovingly realised characters make this novel a
stand out. As a critique of communism it works well, showing up the flaws in
the system through stories of marginalisation and inequality. A fascinating
read for anyone interested in political science fiction.
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