Children of Men

Children of Men is billed as an exciting thriller and a look at a possible future. Instead I found it depressing and boring. I nearly gave up on it half way through. I admit, I picked up this book because the movie did look exciting - perhaps with some re-writing.

The book is divided into two parts. The first part develops the background of the main character and sets up the story. The first part takes up over half the book. It is the most boring part of the book and the reason I nearly gave up on it. It drags at a snails pace. And when the worst happens to humanity, people turn into the worst of humanity. People all of sudden give up their freedoms and hopes and begin to participate in mass, organized, suicide - the most depressing part of the story.

The second part of the book finally picks up speed and interest. I don't quite get the love angle that is introduced. It makes no sense, IMO. The main character and scooby group experience violence as they flee from authorities. Frankly, I didn't get the second half of the book either. It speeds along, assigning actions and events to people randomly.

The story has so much potential. But why does tragedy have to bring out the worst in people every stinking time. Please, somebody write a futuristic story that brings some HOPE. This story ends with pseudo-hope, but I doubt the altruistic motivations of the main character. Is he really any better than the evil ruler of Britain?

Book Rating: 2 1/2 stars

Up next: Cold Sassy Tree by Olive Ann Burns