Klara is an Artificial Friend, a solar-powered solar-observing android waiting in a storefront to be chosen by a child. She is eventually purchased as a companion for Josie, a young girl suffering from a chronic, life-threatening illness caused by a genetic "lifting" procedure intended to enhance her intelligence. From her limited perspective, Klara treats the Sun as a literal deity with the biological power to heal. As Josie’s health fails, Klara attempts to broker a divine bargain with the light, while Josie’s mother prepares a darker contingency plan involving Klara’s own mechanical consciousness.
This novel suits readers interested in the ethical boundaries of artificial intelligence and the definition of a human soul. It attracts those who prefer quiet, observational science fiction over action-heavy space opera. Readers walk away with a specific perspective on how technology mirrors human devotion and the way parents project their grief onto machines. The story provides a stark look at social stratification through genetic modification and the disposable nature of artificial life once its service ends.
Insights from Klara and the Sun
“The Sun always has ways to reach us.”
Klara believes the Sun is a literal god who cures people. Her faith is so pure it makes our logic feel cold.
Josie is being replaced by a machine because her mother can't face grief. It shows how we try to edit out the pain of losing someone.
Rick and Josie have a love that only makes sense to them. The world tries to rank their worth, but they just want to draw together.
“I observed the way the light fell.”
Klara notices the way shadows move across the floor better than any human. She pays more attention to the world than the people she serves.
- Published
- 2021
- Publisher
- Faber
- Language
- EN
