A search for the origin of the universe from a unique new perspective. When I first started reading ‘Param 1.0’ by Vaibhav Sonawane I thought that the use of terms such as “members” to describe the focal characters was a way to describe scientists while creating a sense of otherness or some sort of separation of experience for the reader as part of the set up of the sci-fi novel. However while I wasn’t entirely wrong this initial assumption wasn’t correct either as we read how literal elements (Hydrogen, Carbon, Oxygen etc) travel the universe conducting experiments on planets looking for answers about the creation of the universe. I found this plot concept to be from a unique perspective while still focusing on scientific questions that the reader could relate to - evolution, creation, advancement without safeguards. There’s also moments of conflict between the members with secrets kept, power struggles and hidden motivations. I did find a lot of the storytelling to be a bit distanced. The initial sense of separation from the narrative was continued by the events of the book being fed back like reports in a meeting. I didn’t feel like I was really drawn into the storylines and I found little opportunity to build an emotional connection to the characters which I personally need to make a story linger with me. ‘Param 1.0’ is the start of a unique sci-fi story that offers a lot for those interested in scientific non-fiction, while also providing an opportunity to contemplate some of the larger scientific questions. The book is well-written and the author manages to deliver quite dense subjects in a way that's really accessible, and I think die-hard sci-fi fans would be intrigued by the storyline even though it didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
Charlotte Walker, A LoveReading Ambassador
| Primary Genre | Indie Author Books |
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