"Capitol" by Orson Scott Card takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the political landscape of modern-day Washington, D.C. In this gripping novel, we follow the story of Peter Martin, a young and ambitious senator as he becomes entangled in a web of power, corruption, and intrigue.
Throughout the book, Card skillfully explores the ethical challenges faced by politicians, diving deep into the inner workings of government. Through compelling dialogue and well-developed characters, he sheds light on the motives behind political actions and reveals the blurred line between personal ambition and public service. "Capitol" offers a powerful critique of the corrupting influence of power and the compromises politicians must make to survive in this cutthroat world.
Card's writing is captivating and keeps readers engaged from start to finish. His ability to create intricate and believable worlds is showcased once again as he brings Washington, D.C. to life on the pages. The strong character development allows readers to connect intimately with Peter, fostering an emotional investment in his moral dilemmas.
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Moreover, "Capitol" explores relevant and resonant themes such as the clash between idealism and pragmatism, the impact of media scrutiny on the political process, and the personal consequences of one's choices on their political career. Card's thoughtful examination of these themes adds depth and complexity to the narrative, elevating it beyond a mere political thriller.
Overall, "Capitol" is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that offers valuable insights into the inner workings of politics. Orson Scott Card's masterful storytelling, combined with a compelling plot and complex characters, make it a must-read for fans of political thrillers and anyone interested in understanding the intricacies and moral complexities of political life.
What are readers saying?
"Capitol" by Orson Scott Card has elicited a range of opinions from readers, with a somewhat polarizing response overall. The average rating of 3.61 stars out of 5 indicates that readers have varying views on the book.
Positive reviews highlight the book's political intrigue and complex plot as major strengths. Many found the concept of training children to be politicians in a future society fascinating and engaging. Readers also appreciated the depth and complexity of the main protagonist's journey, praising the well-developed characters and the author's ability to create relatable individuals. The writing style was commended for its clarity and believability.
In contrast, negative reviews express concerns about the book's convoluted nature and lack of focus. Some readers found certain plot points confusing and criticized the pacing, which hindered their overall enjoyment. Additionally, some felt that the political discussions in the book were overly philosophical and abstract, making it challenging to fully immerse themselves in the story.
Many reviewers found the book's concept of training children for political positions to be a unique and refreshing take on the dystopian genre. They appreciated the attention to detail and the exploration of political systems and power dynamics.
Character development is repeatedly mentioned as a strong aspect of "Capitol." Readers appreciated the moral dilemmas faced by the main characters and the internal struggles they experienced. The complex relationships between characters were also highlighted as noteworthy.
CapitolBook PoliticalThriller WashingtonDC