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Reviewed by Gaius Konstantine for Readers' Favorite
“Over generations, the original idealism has been perverted and evolved into what we have now.” Idealism and lofty goals often become twisted, and Dystopian Paradise, a novella by Marvin Cook, is a perfect example of utopianism corrupted. The story begins simply enough, with 12-year-old Pilar gazing at a sunrise from the highest point on the tiny island where she lives. Her life is also simple, as is her community of some 43 people who eke out an existence in the aftermath of a global catastrophe. This soon changes, as Pilar spots a ship in the distance. When a landing party from the vessel reaches her community, Pilar and her people are introduced to would-be saviors offering help. With no reason to doubt the newcomers, the island's community welcomes their intervention, as Pilar and two other young girls leave with them to find a better life. Arriving at her new home, Pilar integrates into a seemingly benign society that hides many uncomfortable truths.
Compact, direct, and effective, Dystopian Paradise by Marvin Cook offers more than a tale of a post-apocalyptic world. The basic plot centers on a young girl and her adventures, but that is misleading, as this book is an indictment of failed political systems, central planning, eugenics, and the corrupting excesses of humanity. Multiple themes are also present in this surprising story, including growth, discovery, and the price of freedom. While the character development is solid but slightly constrained by the story's brevity, the author did a credible job of introducing a unique and fascinating cast. Fast-paced and written in a sharp and clear style, the novella is more than the sum of its parts. For fans who enjoyed George Orwell's Animal Farm but prefer a more plausible and realistic setting, Dystopian Paradise is the story you've been waiting for.
