Last year, my wife, with her knack for finding literary treasures off the beaten path, gave me “Mockingbird” (Sinsonte in Spanish) for my birthday. This dystopian gem is by Walter Tevis, the author of “The Queen’s Gambit” which inspired the popular Netflix series.

The story unfolds in a future where the members of the human race can be counted by the million and machines (robots) have taken over thought and action. These humans, stripped of literacy and emotional depth, exist in a narcotic haze, their lives reduced to a shallow imitation of existence.

“Mockingbird” explores this numb world through the intertwined lives of three individuals: Paul Bentley, a man struggling with and enjoying his newfound literacy; Mary Lou, a woman with strong will and deep feelings; and Spofforth, an ancient robot grappling with existential questions. As their paths cross, they begin to discover the power of reading, the importance of human connection and intimacy, and the potential for rebellion against a seemingly utopian, yet ultimately sterile, society. 

I was struck by how timely “Mockingbird” feels, even though it was published back in 1980. Tevis’s subtle exploration of what it means to be human in a tech-dominated world really resonated with me. The question of whether genuine emotion can survive in a world obsessed with efficiency is more relevant than ever. And Spofforth…he’s an interesting character, a reminder that progress without purpose can lead to a sterile and ultimately tragic existence.

Despite the lack of major plot twists, I consider this a classic and rate it a 9 out of 10. This is a must-read for anyone interested in science fiction that explores the human condition.

– S –

P.S. This Spanish edition’s cover is stunning – I would have bought the book for that alone!