Review of Mickey7 Novel: Edward Ashton's Work Explored
In the captivating science fiction novel, Mickey7, by Edward Ashton, readers embark on a thought-provoking journey through a world where human lives are commodified, and individual identity is challenged.
The protagonist, Mickey Barnes, is an Expendable - a reprintable human, contractually obligated to take on tasks that will inevitably lead to his demise. This unique concept raises complex questions about what defines individual identity and humanity when memories persist but bodies are replaced.
Mickey's disposability highlights the dehumanizing nature of capitalism, as human lives are weighed against profit margins. The story critically examines this economic system, making readers question the value of individual life and the ethics of exploitation.
The narrative delves into the psychological and existential implications of repeated death and resurrection, exploring the burden and alienation tied to Mickey's unique condition. The book invites readers to ponder the nature of self in a technologically mediated future.
The colony on the frozen planet Niflheim is led by a figure with strong religious undertones, introducing themes of zealotry and authoritarian control. These themes contribute to social tensions and critiques of ideological dominance.
The plot involves colonizing a foreign planet, contact with an alien species, and the tensions arising from misunderstandings and conflicting interests between humans and natives. These themes echo those of colonialism, otherness, and belonging, making readers question the impact of human presence on alien worlds.
The book contains some violent content, with terrible things happening to Mickey, but the descriptions of his deaths are not overly graphic. The language is rated high, with a handful of "F-bombs" throughout, but the content is more in line with a PG-13 rating.
Sexual content is minimal, with fade-to-black sex, kissing, and cuddling. The book deals with first contact with the planet's native creatures, which some readers found challenging due to their personal struggles with "first contact" stories. However, by the end of the book, it does not become a significant issue.
Mickey Barnes, a historian before becoming an Expendable, at times, gives background information on things that have happened to him or in human history. This adds depth to the narrative and helps readers understand the context of the events unfolding.
The book also explores the social stigma faced by Expendables. Some people view them as abominations, others fetishize them, and others avoid them due to their repeated printouts. Mickey Barnes must choose between hiding the fact that he is a multiple and risking permanent death, or killing Mickey8 for the good of the colony and himself.
The concept of Expendables is fascinating, as they are necessary for the survival of interstellar colonies. They recycle organic materials like waste, corpses, and plant matter into resources. This concept, along with the profound themes and social constructs explored in the book, make Mickey7 a must-read for science fiction enthusiasts and those seeking a thought-provoking read.
The movie adaptation of Mickey7, Mickey17, starring Robert Pattinson as the quirky Expendable, was previewed in December 2024, promising to bring the captivating story to life on the big screen.
Books such as "Mickey7" by Edward Ashton offer a unique blend of entertainment and thought-provoking discussion, delving into themes of dehumanization, identity, and societal constructs through the story of an Expendable named Mickey Barnes. The book's exploration of the Expendables, a group essential for interstellar colonies who recycle organic materials, raises questions about individual value and the impact of human presence on alien worlds.
