Project Itoh (1974–2009)

Genocidal Organ is a debut that shows enormous promise.
The novel is rife with fascinating concepts, the main character is relatable despite living a life so far removed from our own, and some of the action sequences truly put you in there.
On the other hand there unfortunately are so many pages of exhibition, of overexplanation, of endless monologues, that you are wondering whether this novel ever passed through the hands of an editor.
Contentwise this novel is extremely bleak, possibly the darkest I've ever read. There is death on every page, in almost every scene, every conversation and every thought of the protagonist.

Ultimately these flaws and the bleakness make me hesitant to recommend this, but if you're willing to tackle those, you'll find an interesting book by a talented author who unfortunately didn't live long enough to develop to his full potential.… (més)

This story is a deeply social SF, exploring the effects of hyper-advanced medical technology that makes humans essentially invulnerable to disease, and the social system that forces conformity to that technology. Three girls are so resistant to the restrictive nature of a "kind" society that they try to kill themselves, and this stuff the course of not only their futures but all of humanity.

This is a very thought provoking story, but I can see it causing some consternation in current society, with certain discussions of Naziism and politically correct ideas in lights that many people might not like. However, the base concepts of the cost of absolute safety and the choice between dangerous freedom and safe oppression is one that's always worth probing.

The translation by Alexander O. Smith is also excellent. It's smooth and natural, and never feels awkward.… (més)