Halfway Human

Rating:
Summary: Excellent sci fi book on gender role and power issues
Review: This book was a fascinating study of societal roles, including those of gender and minority issues. I found the juxtaposition of the character Tesla, a "bland" trained by society to serve others as an asexual servant, with a visiting intellectual studying the role of blands, both interesting and sad. As Tesla's interaction with others continued to show that she was intelligent, insightful and resourceful, the book was able to portray her growth as a character. I recommend this book to anyone who has ever wondered why some of us feel "halfway human" and believes one can achieve despite negative life circumstances.

Rating:
Summary: The politics of sexuality at a galactic scale
Review: This superb book explores themes that make you think and entertains spectacularly at the same time. The politics of gender are woven into a dense tale of intrigue, alien culture, and hard core scientific speculation. A sweeping work that is a thoroughly enjoyable read. Carolyn Ives Gilman is definitely a skilled writer to watch for.

Rating:
Summary: Powerful, thoughtful and frightening.
Review: This was a compelingly disturbing novel. Carolyn Ives Gillman has created a work of art. A socialogical look at another culture, that brings to mind all that we are most ashamed of in our own. I was instantly attached to the androgenous Tedla and was more than willing the laugh and cry and stay up till four a.m. getting to know it better. A must read for any one who wants to strech their brain.