"The Folk of the Fringe" by Orson Scott Card is a captivating collection of post-apocalyptic tales that immerse readers in a world set in the American West. The book weaves together four distinct stories, each offering a unique perspective on a society struggling to rebuild itself after a devastating nuclear war. Throughout these narratives, Card explores themes of faith, redemption, and the indomitable spirit of humanity in the face of adversity.
The first story, "West," centers around a group of Mormons who have settled in Enclave, a small town trying to maintain their faith and community amidst a harsh environment and the constant threat of marauders. Through rich character development, Card delves into the profound beliefs and values that provide hope and purpose to their lives.
In "America the Beautiful," the second story, Card introduces readers to a secular community in southern Utah striving to rebuild civilization. Here, the focus shifts towards the socio-political landscape, examining the power dynamics and the struggle between individual freedom and the need for societal structure.
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"Salvage," the third story, plunges readers into a world inhabited by scavengers who scrounge through the remnants of lost cities, seeking valuable resources for trade. One group of scavengers stumbles upon a game-changing discovery that raises profound moral dilemmas and explores the lengths individuals are willing to go to merely survive in a collapsing society.
The final story, "The Fringe," uncovers a community living on the outskirts of mainstream Mormon society. This group ventures into practices considered heretical by the larger church, challenging the boundaries of religious belief and the consequences of straying from established dogma. Card provokes thought by questioning the idea of absolute truth and underscoring the importance of questioning and adapting one's beliefs.
What are readers saying?
The response to Orson Scott Card's "The Folk of the Fringe" has been mixed among readers, with varying opinions on different aspects of the book. While some reviewers found the storytelling thought-provoking and the characters engaging, others felt it fell short in several ways.
A recurring theme in positive reviews is the book's exploration of post-apocalyptic themes and its ability to stimulate thought. Many readers praised Card's creation of a believable world and found his portrayal of the challenges faced by the characters to be realistic and compelling. The book was commended for its ability to prompt reflection on the human condition and societal structures.
In addition, the characters in "The Folk of the Fringe" received praise from many reviewers. Card was applauded for his creation of multi-dimensional and relatable characters that allowed readers to become emotionally invested in their journeys. The diverse perspectives and motivations showcased in the book were also appreciated, adding depth to the narrative.
However, some readers had criticisms about the pacing and structure of the book. Some found it difficult to fully immerse themselves in the story due to its slow pace and lack of momentum. The episodic format of the book was seen by a few as hindering its flow and disrupting the overall coherence of the narrative.
Another point of contention among reviewers was the political and religious themes presented in the book. While some readers appreciated the exploration of these topics and the ethical dilemmas they raised, others found them to be heavy-handed and intrusive. This led to differing opinions on the book's message and its impact on the reading experience.
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