Wakulla Book Review
Wake the Dead, by Victoria Buck
Let me begin with a warning—this book ends with lots of unresolved
issues, so I don’t know if there’s a sequel coming, or this book is part of a
series (it was published in 2014), but be prepared to be left hanging when you
finish reading this book.
Remember the thought of cyborgs and a “super human” from “The
Terminator”, or robots running the world, as in “I Robot”? Well, in Wake the Dead Chase Sterling, formerly
known as Charles Redding, is a host of a game show in the future called “Change
Your Life.” With his producer’s help (Kerstin) the show changes peoples’ lives
with unimaginable wealth, health, or jobs.
As the story progresses, the government wants to “better” the citizenry
through techno-medical advancements. Oh, by the way, a major side effect to
these changes would be to be able to monitor and possibly control the lives of
anyone who has the technology in his or her body. Who better to introduce
society to the greatness of this technology than the trusted game show host
Chase Sterling, who has already changed so many lives for the better? Except
all doesn’t go according to plan, Chase isn’t exactly the perfect patient, and
much like today, some in society are resisting “Big Brother’s” encroachment in
their lives.
As the book progresses, Christians are seen to be part this
movement, and a good connection with today’s Underground Church is made. All
the latest technology in the headlines is prominent in the book, making for
fast paced, exciting reading.
It seems the author is trying to advance a couple themes—one person can
make a difference, we always have choices in life, there’s always hope, and
good will conquer evil. The author writes for a young adult audience with an
underlying caution toward blindly embracing all of the latest technology. It seems
that the author also tries to get people to fight for what they know is right.
The thesis of the book appears to be no matter what happens in life,
Christ can save us and believers will have eternal life with Him in Heaven. The
only somewhat controversial issue addressed in this book is that of genetic
engineering and “playing God”” with techno-medical advancements. Ms. Buck’s
response it to take caution and let God be God.
I enjoyed the book (although see the first paragraph about the ending).
It got me thinking of whom I really trust in the world, my right to privacy,
and whether the government has by best interest in mind (I’d say no). I’m with
Ms. Buck—I’ll embrace new technology with much caution.
Wake the Dead reviewed by: J. Cupp, Wakulla Book Review
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A WAKULLA BOOK REVIEW
I want to personally thank all the men who are reviewing the books written by JOHN 3:16 AUTHORS. I am thankful that we are able to bless them and appreciate the encouragement given to us by their reviews.
Their insights and comments mean a lot. Steve said I (Lorilyn Roberts) could visit the prison and I hope to do that sometime in the near future. I ultimately look forward to the day when we are free in the Lord's presence to worship together our Risen King!
Each WEEK (usually on Tuesday), we are posting reviews from Wakulla Correctional inmates of John 3:16 books.
Inmates are loving the new books from John 3:16 authors. Chaplain Steve Fox is adding the new books to the prison library in this initiative to "change lives to ensure a safer Florida."
