Friday 9 October 2015

BILLY AND THE CLONEASAURUS - Stephen Kozeniewski



Six billion identical clones make up the entire population of Earth, and William 790-6 (57th Iteration) is exactly like everybody else. In his one year of life he will toil in suburban mediocrity and spend as much cash as possible in order to please his corporate masters. When 790’s first birthday (and scheduled execution) finally rolls around, a freak accident spares his life. Living past his expiration date changes 790 profoundly. Unlike other clones he becomes capable of questioning the futility of his own existence. Seeking answers in the wilderness, he discovers a windmill with some very strange occupants, including a freakish, dinosaur-like monstrosity. Which is especially strange since every animal on earth is supposed to be extinct… Dark, haunting, and blisteringly satirical, BILLY AND THE CLONEASAURUS is the story of one “man’s” attempt to finally become an individual in a world of copies.

REVIEW: This was a quick and enjoyable read. It was easy enough to follow, funny enough make me smile on a blustery afternoon, and unique enough to keep it fun and interesting. I enjoyed the context of a world full of Williams and the author's building of a society where everyone looks the same, behaves the same, does the same. There's not a lot of build up as to why, but if I'm totally honest, there isn't a lot of need for it. Kozeniewski has done a superb job in creating an environment that allows for complete reader immersion. Our protagonist, William, is an equally well portrayed character who breaks the mold and, through a fluke, starts to become an individual (as opposed to just another cookie-cutter William). With a little more fleshing out to smooth out timeline issues and a more measured pace, this would be a five-star read. Still, as is, Stephen Kozeniewski has produced a singular story that fits the bill for anyone looking for a quick and entertaining read.

FOUR STARS

Amazon Link: Billy And The Cloneasaurus

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