“There’s no such thing as the life you’re supposed to have.”
What if all the visions of the future that were imagined as far back as the 1950’s, were in fact incredibly accurate? Well, that is the version of 2016 that Tom knows. A reality where seemingly the wildest of dreams for the future have been realized.
“In Tom Barren’s 2016, humanity thrives in a techno-utopian paradise of flying cars, moving sidewalks, and moon bases, where avocados never go bad and punk rock never existed . . . because it wasn’t necessary.”
When Tom makes an impulsive and reckless decision, he steers the course of history in a radically different direction, and he himself ends up in the 2016 world that is familiar to us. The lack of progress and achievement is shocking to him and the consequences of his actions weigh heavily on his shoulders. However, this new timeline also has a version of his life that may be a considerable improvement. So, should he try to fix his mistake and restore the reality he erased, or should he stay and live this new version of his life? But not everything is as simple as it seems, and Tom’s search for answers leads him on a journey that may have yet more unforeseen consequences.
All Our Wrong Todays is a highly enjoyable science-fiction novel that is humorous and thought-provoking. Told through a first-person perspective, it takes us through Tom’s recounting of events before and after he, you know, altered reality. Tom is certainly no hero, in fact, he is quite ordinary and very much flawed. His voice is endearing, self-deprecating, and at times provides one-liners that, to me, are laugh out loud funny (no easy feat when it comes to books). Particularly interesting is how Tom develops as a character, especially when faced with his alternate self. While at times I did find descriptions to be a little to descriptive with regards to the science and mechanics of it all, and certain passages a tad bit long-winded, I could’t help but enjoy this wonderful and creative story. There is action, intrigue, compelling characters, and a surprising amount of depth. If this is a genre you like to reach for, then All Our Wrong Todays is definitely worth a read.
*E-copy provided by NetGalley for an unbiased review. Publication date: February 7, 2017.
“It was the kind of August day that hinted at monsoons, and the year was 1774, though not for very much longer.”
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