Feed, by M.T. Anderson

Feed by M.T. Anderson was an intriguing book, describing the possible consequences of allowing media to infest themselves into our lives. Bringing the situation to a fatal extreme, the eerie novel leaves the reader knowing the importance of being unique. The book also provides a peek into the future—a place of flying “up-cars”, new slang, partying on the moon, and a personal shopper, instant messenger, and reference book, installed into almost everyone’s brain (called “the feed”). However, what seems to be amusing era of awesome technology turns out to be a manipulating and deadly one, especially when malfunctions occur. Anderson creates a tone and mood that makes the reader feel like they really are in the future. His theme, of nonconformity, can be applied to any decade, but it is the setting that really makes the book wonderful. He concentrates on every aspect of the time, from house design, to technology, to fashion, to education. However, he maintains connection with the reader, by showing that, despite all this, people will always act the same towards each other. Anderson’s interesting outlook on originality and the results of giving in to “the system” is combined with a thrilling tragedy to make for a page-turner.