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The Last Murder at the End of the World
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The Last Murder at the End of the World by Stuart Turton - September Adult / Non-Fiction BOM (starts 2 Sep)
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Date Chapters MPDQs
2 Sept Prologue - Chapter 14 Judith
3 Sept Chapters 15 - 34 Catherine
4 Sept Chapters 35 - 51 Jenny
5 Sept Chapters 52 - 68 Judith
6 Sept Chapters 69 - end Lexi
Guidance for DQ setters
Aim for a reasonable number of questions: 4 - 5 is typical. Please don't post too many - any more than 7 gets unwieldy!
Use consecutive numbering of the DQs for your days. So, for example, if Day One is posted as questions 1-4, Day Two should start at number 5 etc.
Don't worry too much about your questions: you aren't being tested on how clever your questions are!
Hints and tips:
- Is there a quote that jumped out at you? Use that in a question.
- What about the characters - do they generate strong feelings? No feelings? - either way, we can explore that!
- What about that plot twist?!
- Explore the writing style: is there an unusual structure being used? what's the tone of voice like? or the point of view?
Want more information about how NBRC runs their Book of the Month discussions? Check out the information here
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Beth M https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Judith https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Catherine https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Angie https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Lexi https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
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I have this book. Count me in for DQs.
It’s a great book. Can I have the last day for DQs please ?
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If someone else joins and is interested in writing DQs for the Day 4 section, give a shout. Judith is happy to share the wealth
I'm fine with my day, but am happy to switch if anyone needs to.
I'm good with mine. Thank you
Mod
Prologue to Chapter 14
1.) Did you read 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle or The Devil and the Dark Water or is this your first Turton? Any expectations either way going into this book?
2.) What did you think of humans having a hard stop on their life at their 60th birthday? Did you thoughts change at all when you learned kids don't show up on the island until age 8? How do you think knowing the maximum length of your life would impact your decisions?
3.) This age math is still a bit confusing to me even after learning people get kids who are 8 and not newborns. Niema and the other scientists are all well over 100. Seth is 49, his father was 60, and Emory is old enough to have a grown daughter. Is everyone else as confused as I am?
4.) Who or what do you think Abi is?
5.) The concept of memory gems is an interesting one. Would you like access to all the memories of people who have died? Do you think this would be a curse or a blessing?
Mod
Prologue to Chapter 14
1.) Did you read 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle or The Devil and the Dark Water or is this your first Turton? Any expectations either way going into this book?
I've read both. I'm expecting some woo-woo/magical realism type aspects that keep you guessing. I'm also expecting to be surprised by some twists the author has up his sleeve.
2.) What did you think of humans having a hard stop on their life at their 60th birthday? Did you thoughts change at all when you learned kids don't show up on the island until age 8? How do you think knowing the maximum length of your life would impact your decisions?
The whole life cycle thing is really keeping my head in a spin. I know those answers are the big answers to what's going on in this community. But I certainly can't figure it out right now.
Having a hard expiration date in this community I don't think would change much. However, in the actual world it would make life planning a lot simpler. I think the age of 60 is what's throwing me. Most people these days are working well into their 60s. All my parents/in-laws would be dead already and I never would of been able to know my grandparents. It just seems really young to me.
3.) This age math is still a bit confusing to me even after learning people get kids who are 8 and not newborns. Niema and the other scientists are all well over 100. Seth is 49, his father was 60, and Emory is old enough to have a grown daughter. Is everyone else as confused as I am?
As with my comment above, I know this answer is at the heart of what's going on. It's why people's ages keep getting mentioned I'm guessing. But lordy I cannot figure it out. It's going to bug me until the answers are revealed. LOL
4.) Who or what do you think Abi is?
I'm really not sure about this either. I'm assuming some type of AI? And she has something to do with raising the kids before they are collected at age 8. Other than that, no clue right now.
5.) The concept of memory gems is an interesting one. Would you like access to all the memories of people who have died? Do you think this would be a curse or a blessing?
Part of me says yes, but I think this can lead to a lot of problems. People have private thoughts and intrusive thoughts that aren't meant to be shared outside of their minds. I think looking through people's memories after they are gone could be a blessing in some aspects but I think would end in problems.
DQs Day 1 ~ Prologue to Chapter 141.) Did you read 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle or The Devil and the Dark Water or is this your first Turton? Any expectations either way going into this book?
I read 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle....I think as a BOM. I was expecting a winding story that keeps you on your toes and some twists that will end up surprising you even though you know something is coming!
2.) What did you think of humans having a hard stop on their life at their 60th birthday? Did you thoughts change at all when you learned kids don't show up on the island until age 8? How do you think knowing the maximum length of your life would impact your decisions?
The age/life span is really hard to grasp; I too am sure it is a big part of the plot but I have no idea why or what at the moment. I'm sure that once I thought 60 was old, but not anymore! That seems like a really young age to arbitrarily end someone's life. (Could have a lot to do with my age!!) But why are the scientists older than 60??
3.) This age math is still a bit confusing to me even after learning people get kids who are 8 and not newborns. Niema and the other scientists are all well over 100. Seth is 49, his father was 60, and Emory is old enough to have a grown daughter. Is everyone else as confused as I am?
I'm completely confused by the age math and all the age talk to be honest! I know it will eventually be revealed, but I want to know now! (One reason I am so bad at staying with the reading schedule!!)
4.) Who or what do you think Abi is?
I think she is the AI that influences (or rules) the lives of everyone. Not sure how exactly, but maybe she is implanted in their brain somehow. I also think she telling the story.
5.) The concept of memory gems is an interesting one. Would you like access to all the memories of people who have died? Do you think this would be a curse or a blessing?
Initially that sounds like a wonderful thing to have. But, would you want any of your loved ones to know ALL of your thoughts? Of course, not! I seriously doubt that anyone would. So, some thoughts would be really nice to have, but I think it would be a curse in the end.
Mod
I was trying to hold off a bit, but I'm starting it now!
Just about to start, after I finish the last couple of chapters of another book. But, I have to say that I am a big fan of how publishers have decided to paint the paper edges again. It is a very pretty color green that I get to look at while reading. Yay!
Mod
Ooh cool! I wonder how they decided where to send the different colors?
Mod
Maybe, I got mine at my local indie bookshop. I think I would have noticed if there were different colors available, there was a stack of 5 or 6 books there.
I have a library ebook and no pretty colors
DQs Day 1Prologue to Chapter 14
1.) Did you read 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle or The Devil and the Dark Water or is this your first Turton? Any expectations either way going into this book?
I've read both and really liked The Devil and the Dark Water so I had high expecatations for this one. I finished already despite nominating it since I gave up on it winning so won’t answer any of the questions on guessing. I will say I did enjoy it a lot but The Devil and the Dark Water is still my favorite. I like how each is very different but always some twist or puzzle.
2.) What did you think of humans having a hard stop on their life at their 60th birthday? Did you thoughts change at all when you learned kids don't show up on the island until age 8? How do you think knowing the maximum length of your life would impact your decisions?
I was going with it and figured it was genetically programmed it due to the limited space and resources but did not guess why (and won’t tell you all either for spoilers).
3.) This age math is still a bit confusing to me even after learning people get kids who are 8 and not newborns. Niema and the other scientists are all well over 100. Seth is 49, his father was 60, and Emory is old enough to have a grown daughter. Is everyone else as confused as I am?
It was well set up that the ages are a puzzle and I did not guess the answer.
4.) Who or what do you think Abi is?
Not guessing since I am done.
5.) The concept of memory gems is an interesting one. Would you like access to all the memories of people who have died? Do you think this would be a curse or a blessing?
I think this could be a problem. I don’t want to know thoughts of some people and lets not even add the voyeuristic aspect but this is a very small community so already know a lot about people and very little privacy.
1.) Did you read 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle or The Devil and the Dark Water or is this your first Turton? Any expectations either way going into this book?- This was my first Turton book, but after finishing this one, I have added those other two to my TBR!
2.) What did you think of humans having a hard stop on their life at their 60th birthday? Did you thoughts change at all when you learned kids don't show up on the island until age 8? How do you think knowing the maximum length of your life would impact your decisions?
- I feel like it would make some aspects of life easier- its not a surprise and you get time to say proper goodbyes, but it would also make the time leading up to it really sad :/
3.) This age math is still a bit confusing to me even after learning people get kids who are 8 and not newborns. Niema and the other scientists are all well over 100. Seth is 49, his father was 60, and Emory is old enough to have a grown daughter. Is everyone else as confused as I am?
- I have already finished the book, but this was so confusing for me! I kept trying to do the math to make it make sense, but I was still so confused!
4.) Who or what do you think Abi is?
- I was assuming that it was an AI-type-thing that was in their brains, but I didn't have a lot of other guesses past this.
5.) The concept of memory gems is an interesting one. Would you like access to all the memories of people who have died? Do you think this would be a curse or a blessing?
- I think having a highlight-reel would be fun, but I wouldn't want ALL of the memories- people have private thoughts and moments!! So, probably more of a curse than a blessing.
DQs Day 1Prologue to Chapter 14
1.) Did you read 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle or The Devil and the Dark Water or is this your first Turton? Any expectations either way going into this book?
I haven't read any book by this author yet though 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle is on my tbr. I expect a shocking mystery from this book.
2.) What did you think of humans having a hard stop on their life at their 60th birthday? Did you thoughts change at all when you learned kids don't show up on the island until age 8? How do you think knowing the maximum length of your life would impact your decisions?
I found the hard stop at 60 surprising and that you goto sleep and never wake up as your heart stops beating. But as I read along, I realised this new world is weird. I did like the way they celebrate funerals on the person's last day. Better than having an accidental death like Jack did and not getting a chance to say goodbye! The kids only showing up at age 8 from some unknown part of the island looks very suspicious and I DO NOT TRUST the Elders anymore AT ALL. Also the blank look on the child face when Thea carried him out, but then as soon as he landed on the island he introduced himself as Ben just did not add up. Something is very wrong here.
3.) This age math is still a bit confusing to me even after learning people get kids who are 8 and not newborns. Niema and the other scientists are all well over 100. Seth is 49, his father was 60, and Emory is old enough to have a grown daughter. Is everyone else as confused as I am?
This confused me too but if you think about it, the children are not born to the people on the island so a 20 yr old may get an 8 yr old child and by the time they are 40 their child may get another child, so by the time they are 60, they have a teenage grandchild. I still have an open question on why the Elders have such a long life-span and how?
4.) Who or what do you think Abi is?
I was confused at first but then later realised that Abi is a collective consiousness like an AI version I read in a Sci-Fic book. I don't know the origin of Abi and would be interested in knowing that. Also I am not sure if Abi is evil or good yet.
5.) The concept of memory gems is an interesting one. Would you like access to all the memories of people who have died? Do you think this would be a curse or a blessing?
I would like to access the memory of people who have died., experience life as they once did and try to know them better. A more 4-dimensional feel that reading an autobiography.
Lexi wrote: "I have a library ebook and no pretty colors"Same here, I am reading on my kindle.
DQs Day 1Prologue to Chapter 14
1.) Did you read 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle or The Devil and the Dark Water or is this your first Turton? Any expectations either way going into this book?
This is my first Turton book but I know many love Turton's books, so I am excited.
2.) What did you think of humans having a hard stop on their life at their 60th birthday? Did you thoughts change at all when you learned kids don't show up on the island until age 8? How do you think knowing the maximum length of your life would impact your decisions?
I am conflicted as dying on your 60th is so soon, but you do know and are expecting it, so you can prepare. It's so weird that only 8 year olds show up. Does no one question where they come from or who is raising the babies.
3.) This age math is still a bit confusing to me even after learning people get kids who are 8 and not newborns. Niema and the other scientists are all well over 100. Seth is 49, his father was 60, and Emory is old enough to have a grown daughter. Is everyone else as confused as I am?
No but honestly I read the first section 3 times. I do not have the actual book and audio only currently so the age thing was the least confusing to me,
4.) Who or what do you think Abi is?
Abi seems to be either AI or sentient in everyone mind. Im still debating which way to go on that.
5.) The concept of memory gems is an interesting one. Would you like access to all the memories of people who have died? Do you think this would be a curse or a blessing?
A bit of both as some memories should be left to die. I mean we have this in video and picture form currently.
DQ's Day 26. With Abi putting all to sleep together, do you think it lets some sleep when they want to, Like the scientist?
7. What do you think the Island secret is?
8. It seems that Nema has more power over Abi. Why would that be?
9. Did you think the Scientists were other and could not die, as they are older than everyone else?
10. Was Nema protecting someone/something when she ordered Abi to wipe everyone's memories. Do you think this is why Huey is disconnected from Abi?
Mod
6. With Abi putting all to sleep together, do you think it lets some sleep when they want to, Like the scientist?
I think people can take naps or whatever when the want. It's just that they all have to be "asleep" during the specified time since Abi takes over and has them do other tasks the scientists don't want them remembering.
7. What do you think the Island secret is?
I'm not sure why the fog can't get to the cauldron room. Elevation or too far underground doesn't make sense, otherwise it wouldn't be the only location. Though I suppose we can't assume this island is the only site of humans. They just don't know of any others.
8. It seems that Nema has more power over Abi. Why would that be?
I'm guessing Neima is the one who developed Abi and therefore just has more control over the AI as its creator than the other scientists. I'm guessing it all goes back to the original programming.
9. Did you think the Scientists were other and could not die, as they are older than everyone else?
No, but I knew it was something squirrely. I figured it was sort of like immortal elves. Other things can kill you but natural causes really don't or won't for a long time. I'm assuming now, it has something to do with advanced medical knowledge or something that existed before the fog happened? I'm still no sure why the scientists have lived as long as the have.
10. Was Nema protecting someone/something when she ordered Abi to wipe everyone's memories. Do you think this is why Huey is disconnected from Abi?
I am assuming it is to keep some of the scientists' secrets from the islanders. But I'm not sure completely since Thea and Hep don't remember everything either.
I think whatever is going on with Heui is related to what happened in the cauldron room and maybe to Ben. Not really sure about this one either.
Lexi wrote: "I have a library ebook and no pretty colors"Lexi can I ask a favor since you have a kindle edition. Can you use the search and see if the word Engineer, engineers, or engineered is in the book anywhere. just need pg/loc
Thank You
Judith wrote: "DQ's Day 26. With Abi putting all to sleep together, do you think it lets some sleep when they want to, Like the scientist?
I think people can take naps or whatever when the want. It's just that ..."
I always like to read peoples responses because sometimes I miss/forget things. Like they use the town people at night to do things. I remembered people often waking up with bruises and cuts but I completely forgot!
6. With Abi putting all to sleep together, do you think it lets some sleep when they want to, Like the scientist?- I had been assuming that they all were awake and slept at the same time, but that this excluded the scientists. I know some of the rules don't apply to them, so I had assumed this was just another one...
7. What do you think the Island secret is?
- At this point in the book, I literally had no idea- just grasping at straws that never really made sense.
8. It seems that Nema has more power over Abi. Why would that be?
- I figured it was because Niema had made Abi, so she had extra power over them.
9. Did you think the Scientists were other and could not die, as they are older than everyone else?
- I had assumed that they just had a slowed down aging process because of scientific advances but that the villagers didn't have access to it since they are "younger" than the fog.
10. Was Nema protecting someone/something when she ordered Abi to wipe everyone's memories. Do you think this is why Huey is disconnected from Abi?
- I'm sure she thinks that she's protecting people, but who says that its her decision to make? Something fishy is definitely going on.
Catherine wrote: "Lexi wrote: "I have a library ebook and no pretty colors"Lexi can I ask a favor since you have a kindle edition. Can you use the search and see if the word Engineer, engineers, or engineered is i..."
"She hadn't saved engineers, builders" p. 162
DQs Day 1Prologue to Chapter 14
1.) Did you read 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle or The Devil and the Dark Water or is this your first Turton? Any expectations either way going into this book?
Evelyn Hardcastle, yes. The other, no. I don't remember if I bought it because it is a cool title, or because I read good reviews. I have no idea what this is about going in.
2.) What did you think of humans having a hard stop on their life at their 60th birthday? Did you thoughts change at all when you learned kids don't show up on the island until age 8? How do you think knowing the maximum length of your life would impact your decisions?It made me flash back to Logan's Run, but they were killed (I am trying to remember what they called it) when they were 21 in the book, and 30 in the movie, I think.
Anyway. I think it would put an end date on your plans and aspirations. I'm not sure it would be easier, but it might be easier to know than what we have now which is to hope for long life, but know that we might get hit by a bus in the morning.
3.) This age math is still a bit confusing to me even after learning people get kids who are 8 and not newborns. Niema and the other scientists are all well over 100. Seth is 49, his father was 60, and Emory is old enough to have a grown daughter. Is everyone else as confused as I am?
I want to know why the elders are so old, and without the vagaries of aging. The other math is I think partly to do with the fact that the children are assigned to parents at the age of eight, so the parents may be very young. All I've got so far on that one.
4.) Who or what do you think Abi is?
A computer in a cave with mind reading capabilities. But probably not.
5.) The concept of memory gems is an interesting one. Would you like access to all the memories of people who have died? Do you think this would be a curse or a blessing?
Only if the deceased could choose what to save in the gem. My personal thoughts are my own.
DQ's Day 26. With Abi putting all to sleep together, do you think it lets some sleep when they want to, Like the scientist?
I think they can sleep/nap whenever they want outside of the curfew hours. During curfew, I think that Abi uses whatever control she has over everyone to make them sleep. During sleep time, I think that Abi controls them again and has them doing other tasks. (the ones that no one wants them to remember.) I'll have to go back and look, but I thought the scientists were awake during curfew.
7. What do you think the Island secret is?
We learned a couple of the secrets, didn't we? I haven't read past chapter 34, but am listening to the audio and sometimes the chapters don't match the printed book. So I had better go check before I finish this comment.....
8. It seems that Nema has more power over Abi. Why would that be?
I too thought it was because Niema programed/made Abi.
9. Did you think the Scientists were other and could not die, as they are older than everyone else?
I assumed they had longer life spans due to scientific advances, but that didn't explain why the others had a set termination date.
10. Was Nema protecting someone/something when she ordered Abi to wipe everyone's memories. Do you think this is why Huey is disconnected from Abi?
I don't think Niema ordered everyone's memories to be wiped....she was planning to tell everyone the secrets of the island. I think that Abi took over as she had said she had been making decisions for Niema for some time. I think Abi made the decision to wipe everyone's memories to allow the original plan/design for the island to remain in tact. Or she thinks she knows more/best and is taking control of everything. I think that she manufactured the "accidents" that killed Niema and the others also.
DQ's Day 26. With Abi putting all to sleep together, do you think it lets some sleep when they want to, Like the scientist?
Yes, I assume so as the scientists are experimenting on the sleeping people sometimes.
7. What do you think the Island secret is?
This was pretty much answered in chapter 32. I will say I had thought that the islanders were clones before I read what they were. The world before the fog sounds horrible. The secret I am wondering is if Niema created the fog to kill off the humans that were ruining the world in her mind, and she saved the "worthy" people to restart humanity. Maybe?
8. It seems that Nema has more power over Abi. Why would that be?She made it, and probably has a kill switch, or a directive not to hurt her or thwart her plans built in. Think Dick Jones in Robocop.
9. Did you think the Scientists were other and could not die, as they are older than everyone else?
I was thinking they had some good anti aging drugs or something.
10. Was Nema protecting someone/something when she ordered Abi to wipe everyone's memories. Do you think this is why Huey is disconnected from Abi?
I got the impression that Niema told the villagers, and they were very very pissed off and destroyed everything, But that means she had to get back from the lighthouse. So did her experiment work? Which islander did she kill and why? Why didn't Adil kill her there? I'm very confused.
I think Abi has some plans for Hui. The fact that Abi has plans is a bit frightening though. Niema had a vision and a purpose that nothing would deter her from, even reason or argument from other brilliant people. So creepy. But it seems that Abi has become all powerful. Oz. For what reason, I do not know.
DQ's Day 26. With Abi putting all to sleep together, do you think it lets some sleep when they want to, Like the scientist?
Yes I think Abi let's some sleep when they want - now that we know that not all of them are humans, I think Abi lets the humans sleep as they want.
7. What do you think the Island secret is?
I was under the impression that maybe the Fog is not real or as dangerous as the scientists are projecting them to be but is a way for them to control the people of the island- more like a autocratic dictatorship.
8. It seems that Nema has more power over Abi. Why would that be?
I think she is his Maker and that's the reason she has more power over it she has defined what Abi can and cannot do.
9. Did you think the Scientists were other and could not die, as they are older than everyone else?
Yes I did think that the Scientists might be some type of Aliens as they have such long life-span. After the reveal now I think that maybe the human race had advanced soo much that found some way to increase their lifespan and stop getting sick.
10. Was Nema protecting someone/something when she ordered Abi to wipe everyone's memories. Do you think this is why Huey is disconnected from Abi?
I am not sure what happened there but possible that she did it to save herself as she was being attacked.
DQs Day 3- Chapters 35-5111. Does anyone else want to slap Emory's father Seth? Any ideas why he is so dismissive of her?
12. The way Thea describes the villagers, she hold no regard for them, except as slave labor so to speak. So, was Niema changing them or something, trying to make them more human?
13. What do you think about Niema's safeguard so no one in the know would kill her? Do you think that the threat (and now reality) of dropping the shield was Niema or Abi?
14. If the villagers are basically programmed to not be independent thinkers, why are some of them starting to do that? Or dream? Or are sleep-writing advanced equations?
15. For those who are reading along and not ahead, do you believe Adil's statement?
Whether you are reading ahead or just up to the day's pages, are you enjoying the book?
Mod
11. Does anyone else want to slap Emory's father Seth? Any ideas why he is so dismissive of her?
Yes. He seems like a true believer and unmoving from his beliefs in how things are supposed to be. Emory doesn't fit the mold and he doesn't understand her and is likely embarrassed by her. I don't understand people like that (especially when it comes to their children) but there are certainly a lot of people like that in the real world.
12. The way Thea describes the villagers, she hold no regard for them, except as slave labor so to speak. So, was Niema changing them or something, trying to make them more human?
Thea just saw them as tools that are replaceable and disposable. I think Niema saw them as living things that could become more than what they were designed for.
13. What do you think about Niema's safeguard so no one in the know would kill her? Do you think that the threat (and now reality) of dropping the shield was Niema or Abi?
I'm wondering if that was put in place when all the billionaires, etc were arriving and not in their stasis pods or whatever. To prevent someone from bumping her off and taking over everything? I'm guessing Niema? maybe because of something she found out in one of her experiments? I don't really know.
14. If the villagers are basically programmed to not be independent thinkers, why are some of them starting to do that? Or dream? Or are sleep-writing advanced equations?
I'm going to quote Jurassic Park and say "life finds a way".
:P
15. For those who are reading along and not ahead, do you believe Adil's statement?
Whether you are reading ahead or just up to the day's pages, are you enjoying the book?
Maybe, I've stopped trying too hard to figure it all out because it's making my head hurt. I'm just going with it and enjoying the twists as they are revealed.
I am enjoying this. Like Lexi I think The Devil and the Dark Water may remain my favorite of the author, but this one is up there so far
DQ's Day 26. With Abi putting all to sleep together, do you think it lets some sleep when they want to, Like the scientist?
I think it only puts to sleep some and those awake possibly do experiments or something other with the sleeping ppl.
7. What do you think the Island secret is?
I imagine its something like The Truman Show.
8. It seems that Nema has more power over Abi. Why would that be?
I have no clue on this one, especially now that Nema is dead.
9. Did you think the Scientists were other and could not die, as they are older than everyone else?
Yes it seems weird that they are a lot older and the only ones from before.
10. Was Nema protecting someone/something when she ordered Abi to wipe everyone's memories. Do you think this is why Huey is disconnected from Abi?
I think the wipe was crucial to keep peace a bit longer, but perhaps nema forgot about the fail safe and that everyone will be dying soon anyways.
Lexi wrote: "Catherine wrote: "Lexi wrote: "I have a library ebook and no pretty colors"Lexi can I ask a favor since you have a kindle edition. Can you use the search and see if the word Engineer, engineers, ..."
thank you :)
DQs Day 3- Chapters 35-5111. Does anyone else want to slap Emory's father Seth? Any ideas why he is so dismissive of her?
Yep. She doesn't "fit" his idea of what she should be. I don't understand how parents can act that way towards their children.
12. The way Thea describes the villagers, she hold no regard for them, except as slave labor so to speak. So, was Niema changing them or something, trying to make them more human?
I think Niema saw their potential, and even though they weren't actually humans she saw them more as human equivalents. Whatever her original plan was, I think she wanted it to evolve to include the villagers as equals.
13. What do you think about Niema's safeguard so no one in the know would kill her? Do you think that the threat (and now reality) of dropping the shield was Niema or Abi?
But the safeguard failed in the end, didn't it? I am skeptical of Abi or maybe AI in general. (It could be slightly possible that I read too much.....) I feel like Abi is at the heart of everything that is happening, because she won't allow anyone to take Niema's place and I think that Niema would have had a plan of that unless she just felt her safeguard would keep her alive.
14. If the villagers are basically programmed to not be independent thinkers, why are some of them starting to do that? Or dream? Or are sleep-writing advanced equations?
Their genetic makeup is evolving and that is allowing them to think outside the programming. Or gremlins.
15. For those who are reading along and not ahead, do you believe Adil's statement?
Whether you are reading ahead or just up to the day's pages, are you enjoying the book?
Maybe, At some point I just started reading and not speculating. I was getting everything wrong. LOL So, I'm just letting the book take me where it will. It was a bit hard to follow at first, but overall it's not bad. It certainly is an interesting ride!
Gremlins. Perfect.Also, I am with you on the whole AI thing. Pretty sure I watched The Terminator too many times in my youth.
DQs Day 1 - Prologue to Chapter 141. Did you read 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle or The Devil and the Dark Water or is this your first Turton? Any expectations either way going into this book?
I read Evelyn Hardcastle, and I didn't particularly care for it because I never really "got" the story. That said, the writing style was wonderful, and the creativity in the plot was incredible. I'm expecting the same ride with this one, with the exception being that I'll enjoy the journey a whole lot more. Honestly, I'm reading this now because of the buddy read... I'll appreciate others' insights when there are points in the book where I am not following the plot.
2. What did you think of humans having a hard stop on their life at their 60th birthday? Did you thoughts change at all when you learned kids don't show up on the island until age 8? How do you think knowing the maximum length of your life would impact your decisions?
Being 67 myself, I wasn't thrilled with the hard stop at 60! I'm incredibly curious to learn where the 8-year-olds are coming from! I truly had been expecting a baby when Thea said they were bringing a new child to the village. As for maximum life length, we pretty much have that now, don't we? The average life expectancy in the US today is about 80. It's not as hard as fast a rule as in the village, but we all know there's a definite cap to our years (we just don't know what it is). I think thoughts about how to make our days special no matter how many we get are important questions for a lot of people.
3. This age math is still a bit confusing to me even after learning people get kids who are 8 and not newborns. Niema and the other scientists are all well over 100. Seth is 49, his father was 60, and Emory is old enough to have a grown daughter. Is everyone else as confused as I am?
I've been trying to keep a lot of details in my head, but honestly, I've let the ages more or less flit by me. Vaguely I've recognized they're a bit confusing, though.
4. Who or what do you think Abi is?
I can't wait to find out. Maybe somehow she's something Niema has rigged up to control everyone?
5. The concept of memory gems is an interesting one. Would you like access to all the memories of people who have died? Do you think this would be a curse or a blessing?
It would be fascinating from a clinical perspective to access the memory gems of various loved ones, but I don't think I'd particularly benefit by it. Some events in our lives we can survive because the pain of them lessens over time.
DQs Day 2 - Chapters 15 to 346. With Abi putting all to sleep together, do you think it lets some sleep when they want to, like the scientist?
We now know why the villagers all have to sleep at the same time. And we've seen that the elders aren't affected by the curfew.
7. What do you think the island's secret is?
We got a lot of big reveals in this section... (view spoiler). I'm excited to find out what's next!
8. It seems that Niema has more power over Abi. Why would that be?
Apparently, Niema is Abi's creator, so it would follow that Niema would have more control.
9. Did you think the scientists were other and could not die, as they are older than everyone else?
I hadn't thought about it one way or the other.
10. Was Nema protecting someone/something when she ordered Abi to wipe everyone's memories. Do you think this is why Hui is disconnected from Abi?
No, I think it's because she's dead.
DQs Day 3- Chapters 35-5111. Does anyone else want to slap Emory's father Seth? Any ideas why he is so dismissive of her?
He's still a believer. She doesn't fit his mental image of who she should be.
12. The way Thea describes the villagers, she hold no regard for them, except as slave labor so to speak. So, was Niema changing them or something, trying to make them more human?
Yes, I think Niema saw herself as the catalyst for their evolution to more than just "crums." Thea told Emory that Niema has started (view spoiler). I think she was also trying to achieve that with the schooling, culture, etc.; she was taking advantage of both "nature" and "nurture."
13. What do you think about Niema's safeguard so no one in the know would kill her? Do you think that the threat (and now reality) of dropping the shield was Niema or Abi?
I do think it was Niema.
14. If the villagers are basically programmed to not be independent thinkers, why are some of them starting to do that? Or dream? Or are sleep-writing advanced equations?
Evolution due to what Niema's been doing (per question 12).
15. For those who are reading along and not ahead, do you believe Adil's statement? Whether you are reading ahead or just up to the day's pages, are you enjoying the book?
His accusation makes as much sense as any other solution. I'm enjoying this much more than Evelyn Hardcastle!
DQs Day 3- Chapters 35-5111. Does anyone else want to slap Emory's father Seth? Any ideas why he is so dismissive of her?
- Yes! He has his ideas about what the villagers should be doing, and seems pretty against changing his mind at all, which is disappointing.
12. The way Thea describes the villagers, she hold no regard for them, except as slave labor so to speak. So, was Niema changing them or something, trying to make them more human?
- I thought maybe slightly, but I had also assumed it was some kind of evolution (maybe happening at a faster rate since they had shorter life spans??)
13. What do you think about Niema's safeguard so no one in the know would kill her? Do you think that the threat (and now reality) of dropping the shield was Niema or Abi?
- I feel like this is such a weird thing for Niema to think about haha.. but I had assumed that it was her that put it in place.
14. If the villagers are basically programmed to not be independent thinkers, why are some of them starting to do that? Or dream? Or are sleep-writing advanced equations?
- Similar to my answer on 12, I had assumed it was enough evolution and changes that they were starting to "stray"...
15. For those who are reading along and not ahead, do you believe Adil's statement?
Whether you are reading ahead or just up to the day's pages, are you enjoying the book?
- I have already finished the book, but I really enjoyed it! I'm looking forward to reading Turton's other books :)
Mod
Ch 52 to 68
16.) Were you surprised to learn Jack was alive? Or at least didn't drown like everyone was told?
17.) Did anyone else google if peeing on your hands will toughen them up? No, just me? Mkay. Apparently it's a thing some baseball players do. Thoughts about this?
18.) What a unique protection system, carnivorous flowers. Would you want them on your property or a hard pass?
19.) "She was afraid" "Powerful people usually are, they have the most to lose." Do you agree with Thea's statement?
20.) Well, do you think Emory is right? That Hephaestus killed Niema? If so, why do you think he did it?
Mod
Ch 52 to 68
16.) Were you surprised to learn Jack was alive? Or at least didn't drown like everyone was told?
This did surprise me as it wasn't something that occurred to me as being an option. Though once this twist came up, I was surprised in hindsight that it wasn't something I wondered about.
17.) Did anyone else google if peeing on your hands will toughen them up? No, just me? Mkay. Apparently it's a thing some baseball players do. Thoughts about this?
My thoughts were basically "boys are gross no matter how old they get". Followed by "what's wrong with gloves"?
18.) What a unique protection system, carnivorous flowers. Would you want them on your property or a hard pass?
In the right circumstances sure. But not at my house or anything. One I have a 6 year old so that's a no. And I also get way too many Amazon packages being delivered to risk injury to unsuspecting delivery drivers.
19.) "She was afraid" "Powerful people usually are, they have the most to lose." Do you agree with Thea's statement?
Yes, I do. It falls along the lines of "power corrupts". And I think it's why so many people in power do such cray cray things. They are desperate to keep power and obtain more. Like a drug addict looking for a bigger high.
20.) Well, do you think Emory is right? That Hephaestus killed Niema? If so, why do you think he did it?
At this point I figured it was a good possibility and that it had to do with the experiments on the people. But I'd pretty much given up at this point trying to figure out the murderer.
From the bestselling author of The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle and The Devil and the Dark Water comes an inventive, high-concept murder mystery: an ingenious puzzle, an extraordinary backdrop, and an audacious solution.
Solve the murder to save what's left of the world.
Outside the island there is nothing: the world was destroyed by a fog that swept the planet, killing anyone it touched.
On the island: it is idyllic. One hundred and twenty-two villagers and three scientists, living in peaceful harmony. The villagers are content to fish, farm and feast, to obey their nightly curfew, to do what they're told by the scientists.
Until, to the horror of the islanders, one of their beloved scientists is found brutally stabbed to death. And then they learn that the murder has triggered a lowering of the security system around the island, the only thing that was keeping the fog at bay. If the murder isn't solved within 107 hours, the fog will smother the island—and everyone on it.
But the security system has also wiped everyone's memories of exactly what happened the night before, which means that someone on the island is a murderer—and they don't even know it.
And the clock is ticking.
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nominator: Lexi