Review: A compelling dystopia about corporations and the human spirit
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 06 3, 2014
Contributor is about a girl named Dara who lives in a dome entirely run by Magnum. As long as citizens contribute by working for Magnum, their basic needs are met. Dara is finally given an opportunity to compete for a chance to be assistant to the head of engineering. Along the way, she discovers just how cutthroat and ruthless employees will be to protect their jobs and ambitions. And once her mother is hurt in an accident, Dara discovers that everyone is expendable when they are no longer useful to the company. And ultimately Dara has to decide what to do about that.I really enjoyed this story. It is a good dystopia mixed with a coming of age story and what a family will do to protect itself. And what a company will do to anyone who isn't contributing to their bottom line. Dara is really likable and interesting. Her rivals are well done (although one is a bit cliched at times), and her mentor is truly multi-layered. The setting is really interesting...a world saved by and yet totally dependent on corporations (who put their own interests ahead of everyone).The plot seemed a bit slow in the beginning as we're introduced to the world and Dara's job but then an event happens that really shoots the story in a new direction and opens up the world and possibilities to the reader. Her world view and relationships are tested and she really grows into a strong young woman.Ultimately I found the story engaging and a great dystopia. I'm really looking forward to reading the next book.NOTE: I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.