"Shame of Man" by Piers Anthony is a captivating work of science fiction that delves into the intricate themes of identity, conscience, and human behavior. The story takes place in a futuristic society where the population is divided into genetically engineered sub-species, each possessing its own unique abilities. The protagonist, Klept, is a troubled man who grapples with accepting his true nature, burdened by the shame associated with his unconventional capabilities.
One of the book's most compelling aspects is its exploration of shame and its profound impact on individuals and society as a whole. Klept embarks on a journey of self-discovery, enduring a psychological and moral exploration as Anthony shines a light on the effects of shame on personal relationships and personal growth.
Anthony's writing style is highly engaging, drawing readers into the vividly described futuristic world he has crafted. The narrative unfolds at a brisk pace, filled with suspenseful moments and surprising twists that keep readers thoroughly engaged. As the plot progresses, Anthony confronts readers with ethical dilemmas and existential questions that provoke deep contemplation.
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The character development in "Shame of Man" is exceptional, particularly in the case of Klept. From the outset, readers feel a connection to his internal struggle and the challenging path toward self-acceptance. The supporting characters are also well-developed, contributing depth and complexity to the story.
In summary, "Shame of Man" is a captivating and thought-provoking science fiction novel. Piers Anthony's imaginative world-building, combined with his exploration of identity and shame, makes this book a must-read for fans of the genre and those intrigued by philosophical themes.
What are readers saying?
Piers Anthony's novel "Shame of Man" has garnered a range of reactions from readers. The book is set in a future civilization known as Proton, where a man named Stile must engage in a life-or-death game. Here is an overview of the reviews:
1. Positive Reviews: Some readers appreciated the book's unique concept and the intricacy of its world-building. They commended Anthony's imagination and attention to detail in crafting the Proton universe. These readers found the characters, particularly Stile, well-developed and captivating, following his journey through the game with enthusiasm. Ultimately, they described the book as thrilling and enjoyable.
2. Negative Reviews: A number of reviewers expressed disappointment with "Shame of Man." They found the pacing slow and lacking in action, leading to a struggle to maintain interest. Furthermore, they felt that the narrative was burdened by repeated and lengthy descriptions, which unnecessarily lengthened the story. Some readers also found the plot to be predictable and lacking originality.
3. Characters: The opinions on the characters were divided amongst readers. While some found the characters relatable and fully realized, others felt they lacked depth and struggled to connect with them emotionally. Additionally, a few reviewers noted that the development of secondary characters was insufficient, making them feel less integral to the overall story.
4. Writing Style: Readers had differing views on Anthony's writing style. Some valued the attention to detail and descriptive language, which vividly brought the Proton universe to life. Conversely, others found the writing style to be excessively dense and challenging to follow, making it difficult to remain engaged with the narrative.
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