Nope, this isn't "Fifty Shades of Grey" - the e-book phenomenon and #1 New York Times bestselling fiction paperback by E. L. James. Before E.L. James' novel became part of the household vernacular, the British sci-fi and fantasy author Jasper Fforde released his work, "Shades of Grey," in 2009.

Fforde's imaginative novel takes place in a future dystopia called Chromaticia – a world where society is governed by one's ability to perceive colour. In the middle of this colour caste system is Eddie Russet, the novel's main protagonist. As demonstrated by his last name, Eddie is a member of the House of Red – a group of citizens who can only see red pigments. Due to this inability to perceive multiple hues, the “Reds” occupy a low standing on Chromaticia's social hierarchy. Yet, although Eddie is limited to the colour red, his situation is enviable when compared to the unfortunates "Greys." Since these individuals are unable to perceive any colour, they are assigned to the lowest rung of Chromaticia's social ladder and consequently, occupy a place as second-class citizens.

When Eddie is sent to the outer-fringe town of East Carmine as punishment, he befriends one of these Greys – Jane, a girl renowned for her unique nose shape and her explosive temper. Through his relationship with Jane - which is far from stable - Eddie begins to question the veracity and morality of Chromaticia's government. For instance, why do the laws of Munsell (the founder of Chromaticia) outlaw the manufacture of spoons? And it appears that the practice of sending societal misfits to the town of High Saffron for rehabilitation is a cover-up for the extermination of revolutionaries.

Satirical and full of fast-paced action, Fforde's novel is a work of innovation while simultaneously reminding his readers of the destructive and oppressive power of dictatorial governments.

If you have a library card for the PEI Public Library Service, you can place a hold on this book by clicking the following link: http://bit.ly/JlnRF