Convergence Problems by Wole Talabi

Source: NetGalley – Thank you to the publisher!
TL;DR: A strong and varied collection of African centered SF stories exploring technology and it’s connections in our lives.

Plot: These vary in link but all look at the intersection of technology and our lives
Characters: A good mix here, they weren’t the strongest voices but a solid mix.
Setting: While these take place in space and on earth they all center African peoples or the land of Africa
Science Fiction: Again varied, and with a dash of magic in the SF elements

Thoughts:

Convergence Problems is solid. I have to open with that. While it wasn’t mind blowing for me, I enjoyed most of these stories for how our auhthor captured and explored these ‘convergence problems’ in short format. Each takes a different way of looking at how technology does or might intersect with our lives.

My favorite pieces in this were the shorter ones, the longer pieces struggled to hold my interest but the shorter, more dynamic pieces were great. This features at least one novella, which I found fascinating but a little dull to my tastes, as well. My favorite by far was Saturday’s Song. The dynamic way it was told, via song and different voice, made it fun and unique.

If you enjoy Science Fiction shorts this is a collection that’s worth the pick up. The ideas are interesting, and the execution solid.

3 out of 5 mercenary gods