This has been on my to-read pile for waaay too long, finally blew through it today. Super fun, interesting, and unique book that tackles real-world economics through the lens of a fictionalized game world. The main character, a shy teenage gamer recently relocated to Arizona, becomes involved with a scheme to make real cash by slaying virtual “gold farmers” who are played by poorly-paid workers in China. Complications both emotional and ethical ensue.
The plot progresses in an entirely believable and thoughtful manner, with characters’ actions and conflicts making perfect sense in the context of their development (mistakes, suffice it to say, are made). The overall feel is of a very well made animated film (honestly this could be fantastic translated to the screen) or a sophisticated kids’ novel; there is humor, action, and character development throughout, and the lessons learned are simple but not simplistic or straight-forward, the book opens up the reader to further thinking on the complex subjects presented rather than just tying up all the loose ends. Doctrow does a great job of inserting the political/economic/activist ideas into the plot and character development in a naturalistic way.
It is certain that a good portion of the credit for the book’s success must be given to Jen Wang, who is credited as not only creating the (vibrant, personable, and beautiful) artwork but also in adapting this tale (originally published as a short story) the the graphic novel medium, which she does wonderfully. Visually the story perfectly balances duelling worlds of fantasy and realism, and in the end convincingly posits that mundane rituals like watching TV with your parents or changing your appearance are just as appealing (or more) as slaying virtual enemies in a fantasy world.
The only thing that really stuck out to me as a negative is a editorial/design choice as opposed to a creative one: I would have had Doctrow’s introduction as an afterword, it is thoughtful and interesting but frames the story too much for my taste… Better to just drop the reader into this world and discuss the thinking behind the book once they have had the chance to construct their own ideas.
Overall good stuff! I’ve got more from both authors in my up-next pile.
