David Bridges
I’m diligently working through my summer reading list, and this week, I finally delved into Alex Foster’s Circular Motion, which was released in May. To my surprise, I wasn’t fully prepared for the profound emotional journey that this novel would take me on. Set in a near-future world, where innovations like OneWheels are commonplace and the pursuit of going viral on social media remains a goal for many, the narrative centers around a megacompany named CWC. They have developed an extreme form of high-speed travel that enables individuals to traverse the globe in a matter of moments. However, it quickly becomes evident that this rapid advancement comes with significant consequences. The Earth is spinning increasingly faster, resulting in alarming repercussions, and protestors are directing their anger towards CWC and the orbital circuit that underpins its travel system.
As the days shorten and climate events escalate in severity, everything is racing towards impending disaster. Circular Motion follows the interconnected lives of several characters: Tanner, a young man from small-town Alaska who secures a position at CWC; Winnie, a girl with a tumultuous past; and Victor Bickle, a professor from Columbia who catapulted to viral fame after forecasting a catastrophe in public infrastructure. The story unfolds through multiple perspectives, revealing their shared connections. This captivating book boldly addresses pressing issues such as capitalism, climate change, and the intricate web of human relationships in a deteriorating world.
Daniel Mercer
