Title: Saha
Author: Cho Nam-Joo
Genre: Sci-fi; Dystopian
Year Published: November 1, 2022
Date Started: November 24, 2022
Date finished: November 26, 2022
This is a story about a future where a caste system truly separates the haves from the have-nots. In an apartment complex known as the Saha Estates, the occupants live quietly, keeping to themselves. Jobs are hard to come by and when there is a job offer, they are usually boring or hard labor and pay very little. The story unfolds when a man from Saha is accused of murder and finds himself hiding from the police. His sister learns of the murder and tries to find him but it’s more difficult than she thought. Eventually, the sister finds out the truth and tries to take down the people who forced this life on her and anyone who suffered under the hands of those in power.
Throughout the story, we are taken through the backstories of a few of the residents at Saha. Their story plays a part in the brother and sister’s story, sometimes indirectly, but provide insights into the rigid world they live in. At first, I wasn’t sure I understood the importance of learning about these characters’ past, but I believe it’s to show us the fear and unfairness these characters had to endure. It created a well-rounded world where everyone was afraid to question their neighbors and authorities.
The translation was done extremely well. I’m sure there were things lost in translation but the overall feel of that world and the characters in it all painted a very visual dystopian society. This story would make for a great movie, and I’d gladly go watch it. If you are a fan of near future or far future bleak sci-fi, you’ll enjoy this.
Who should read this book: If you love very dark dystopian, murder mystery, and a completely controlled society, this one will hit the spot.
From My Corner of the Universe 