Review: Tragic Love Story and A Killer SyFy Novel
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 10 25, 2012
My first impression of reading Desert Angles was one of joy in reading how George Saunders was able to bring together the different aspects of metaphysics, i.e. reincarnation mixed in with a touch of quantum physics,{ even Michio Kaku would enjoy this book} along with a healthy dose of post apocalyptic horror with mutations and zombies running amuck. There is plenty of action here for the adrenaline junkies that would even satisfy Woody Harrelson.Being among the higher echelon writers, one would expect this enthralling type of writing from George Saunders. However, he has far exceeded any of those expectations with this book. Because, to me, Desert Angels is a Tragic Love Story, with a love so strong, that not even death could keep Angela from being with her Jack, even if she comes back as a bird during his waking hours, they cannot be separated. It isn't so much of a romantic love as it is a divine all encompassing love. Yes, to me, this is an incredible tale of tragic love disguised in the form of a killer SyFy novel.The main character of the story is our reluctant hero, Dr. Jack Calisto whom is thrown into the role of saving humanity while trying to survive in a world that no one could have ever imagined with the twist being a pigeon,{Angela} that adopts Jack. Think of Will Smith in "I am Legend" and you'll get a feel of what our Jack is made of and what he is up against.In not giving away the plot, the story ends with a deeply insightful thought that life will carry on, that no matter what may come, the essence of man will continue. And somewhere some way, love will remain. I would venture to guess, considering the depth and significance of the story, that there is a part of Saunders soul instilled into this story and that is what makes this work a milestone in his career as a writer.Even though this is a science fiction novel, the scary aspect of this story is the likely possibility of it really happening. With the tensions today in the Middle East with Iran and Israel along with the rest of the world, it is conceivable that an "end of the world event" could happen. With this touch of realism and relevance to today's events, and the incredible writing talent of George Saunders, this makes for one great read!