Customer Reviews

Report from Group 17

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Although only writing four books, O'Brien displayed a unique talent for imaginative and sensitive writing that is still relevent and captivating 30 years later. It is extremely unfortunate that both this and his other lost work (The Silver Crown) are out of print, as the four books together blend thematically to give the best overview you are going to get of this important, yet mysterious US author. As to Report itself, although functionally a fantastic book, it is probably the least of the four simply because it borrows so heavily from its predecessor Mrs. Frisby, such that it seems as though he might have merely rewritten his newbery award winning classic as an adult novel. However, this is not really the case. Instead, Report gives a fuller view of that same body of invention that also produced Mrs. Frisby, such that while certain ideas would not have worked effectively within children's literature, they work to amazing success in this sci-fi/espionage thriller (if one can really classify this book.)

As to the story itself, it does show O'Brien at the peak of his writing with vulnerable yet brave characters, a fascinating plot centering around the possibility of biological warfare (though this is not political, the characters are scientists, not politicians or generals), and O'Brien's favorite theme of humanity struggling against the constant threat of dehumanization via technology.

Again, this is not his best book, but everything O'Brien put out was significant--and while some of his other books have as stronger message, this one is a great and satisfying romp through what is mostly familiar terrain.

I've read this book three times, each time about three years apart. I can't think of a better book to read on trip as it will completely absorb you while you are waiting at an airport, or bored in flight. I would call it a science fiction mystery.

I am So Suprised no one has reviewed this book. I thought it was great. One of RCOB's best works. If you like Genetics and a good plot this is the book for you.

There were several things about the tight little community of Russians installed at Villa Petrograd that were disturbing: the sophisticated microbiological equipment, the private zoo that seemed to be unusually well supplied with primate specimens, the secrecy.......