Nathan Lowell

NOTHING HAPPENS!!!
Lowell writes well enough in that his prose is clear and descriptive, the dialogue fairly believable, and the details he provides are realistic. But the main problem in this book is what isn't there. There's no technical challenge to be overcome, no character conflicts to be resolved, no crises to avert or endure, no internal angst to work through. The main character, Ishmael, does seize some opportunities to improve his lot and those of his shipmates. But that alone is not enough to carry a book of this (normal) size. Seriously, we are given in-depth descriptions of sandwich making! Furthermore, I was repeatedly struck by the internal question, "so, this is all the progress they've made in 300 years?" I was just underwhelmed at the level of technology in this story. I just don't see myself spending time to read any more in this series.… (meer)

I think Ish needs a vacation on a planet. He seems to have no incentive to do anything but mope. Instead of changing the school system, why does he not start a school in toe holds. They are trying to change a system from the outside. If they started a school in toe holds it would give the people direction to get involved. Making money is a good incentive but i would imagine it would get old fast. Starting a school in toe holds would have a lasting effect on everyone. It would also shine a brighter light and give the old school some competition. Nothing like a little competition to make people who are closed to change wake up and smell the coffee.… (meer)