Anthem by Noah Hawley

This book has a real cinematic quality to it. While I was reading, I almost felt as though I was watching it play out in front of me on a screen, and the construction of the plot is very like that of a blockbuster movie with a young ensemble cast on the run from the bad guys. It comes as no surprise that author Noah Hawley is also a screen writer and series creator, and that is in no way a bad thing, as the writing has pace and a strong sense of direction.

Set in modern day America, it deals with many of the big issues facing society today, such as: political division, corruption bought about by great wealth, climate change, race, mental health issues and young people searching for the truth. Quite a lot to bring together in one novel, but not so different from the world we all experience every day. With the constant bombardment of news assaulting our senses through social media and streaming services, we are all dealing with this stuff every single day.

The plot rides alongside recent American history and the events associated with the end of the last presidency, and although synonyms are used to name the political parties and key players, you will know the events, know the scenarios and have little difficulty in stretching your imagination to the possible ending we could have seen if things had ended differently.

Please be aware that a key theme in the book is increasing numbers of young people committing suicide as a result of activity on social media.

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