A review by cpaig
2043...A Merman I Should Turn to Be by Nisi Shawl

adventurous challenging dark emotional sad tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

In South Carolina in 2043, a group of Black people take advantage of an opportunity to alter their bodies with the help of nano-technology to become merpeople so they can claim their 40 acres and a “mule” as a means of reparations in a new undersea community five miles off the coast. Reality hits hard soon after departure when they are pursued by violent white supremacist gangs attempting to either trap them to violate their right of way to what is, in fact, a reservation (and be arrested) or drug them in hopes they will drown (due to sub-par technology). When they reach the city, they discover it is under constant threat of attack by the gang, making the very act of breathing a life-threatening endeavor. When faced with the reality of their new land, Native merpeople and the newcomers band together to thrive despite frequent attacks and make the most of their 40 acres while also exploiting the system that created both the reservation and the altered people who inhabit it. 

 

Haunting and deep. Pun intended.