Mockingbird

This is a completely subjective review from me, as most of my reviews are. I want to stress that here. Sometimes a book just hits all the right buttons at the right time. It doesn't mean it's the greatest book ever written. But for me, it was the perfect book at the perfect time. I absolutely loved Mockingbird, Walter Tevis's little-known science fiction novel from 1980.

It opens with Spofforth walking up the middle of Fifth Avenue toward the Empire State Building. Spofforth is an android. He is whistling as he walks. Fifth Avenue is deserted except for the chirping of insects coming from the grass and tall weeds growing through the cracked sidewalks. The android stops outside the entrance to the Empire State Building and the doorway speaks:

"Closed for repairs," the voice said to Spofforth as he approached.
"Shut up and open," Spofforth said. And then, "I am Robert Spofforth. Make Nine."
"Sorry, sir," the door said. "Couldn't see..."
"Yes. Open up. And tell the express elevator to be down for me."
The door was silent for a moment. Then it said, "Elevator's not working, sir."
"Shit," Spofforth said. And then, "I'll walk up."

-Walter Tevis, Mockingbird

Robert Spofforth is a "Make Nine" android, a top model. He is in great condition, strong and powerful, but he wants to die. He makes his way to the top of the Empire State Building with the desire to jump off. Unfortunately, due to his programming he can't do it. If he had tear ducts, he would cry.

What a start! I was pulled into the story from these opening pages and immediately wanted to know more about Spofforth, the suicidal android. Where was he from? Why did he want to die? I also wanted to find out what had happened to New York.

Tevis has written a very human story. It's also a very moving story. I have only touched on some of the themes of this book because I want to keep this review short. Additionally, I don't want to reveal too much of the story.

Full Review on my blog: https://biginjapangrayman.wordpress.com/2021/01/17/mockingbird-1980-by-walter-tevis/