We Are Satellites

Sarah Pinsker

Save:

'We Are Satellites' by Sarah Pinsker is a near-future novel that delves into the societal implications of a brain implant technology called Pilot. The story follows a family consisting of two mothers and their two teenage children, each with a unique relationship to the Pilot technology. As the family navigates the impact of the new gadget on their lives, the novel explores themes of trust, family dynamics, societal pressure, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding technological advancements. Through multiple viewpoints, the author skillfully portrays the complexities of human emotions and thought processes, offering a thought-provoking narrative that challenges readers to reflect on the intersection of technology and humanity.

Pinsker's writing style in 'We Are Satellites' is praised for its ability to blend elements of science fiction with intimate family drama. The story unfolds gradually, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the lives of the characters and the moral quandaries they face. The novel tackles themes of love, trust, and societal critique, all against the backdrop of a world where a groundbreaking brain implant technology threatens to divide individuals and communities. Pinsker's exploration of the consequences of embracing new technologies and the struggles of personal choice adds depth to the narrative, making it a compelling and engaging read.

Characters:

The characters are intricately portrayed, each embodying diverse perspectives and challenges that resonate with family dynamics and societal expectations.

Writing/Prose:

The author's writing style is straightforward and engaging, characterized by short chapters that effectively encapsulate emotional moments.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative explores the dynamics of a family grappling with the implications of a new brain implant technology, weaving in multiple perspectives to highlight personal and societal conflict.

Setting:

Set in a near-future environment that closely mirrors today's world, the story addresses technology's impact within a familiar context.

Pacing:

The pacing is steady, allowing for in-depth character exploration before the plot progresses, which suits the family-centric narrative.

There was a blue light in the balcony. Val lingered in the stage wing, looking out on a darkened auditorium and one illicit pinprick, electric blue. The girls squirmed and tapped their feet and whispe...

Notes:

The novel is written by Sarah Pinsker and is her second full-length novel.

We Are Satellites is set in the near future and explores the impact of brain implant technology called 'Pilot'.

The story is told from the perspectives of four family members: two mothers and their two teenage children.

One parent supports the use of Pilot for work, while the other is against it.

One child receives the implant but experiences issues, and the other is unable to use it due to epilepsy.

The narrative skillfully uses short chapters that end on emotional notes.

Themes of parental challenges and family dynamics are central to the story.

The book critiques societal pressure around technological adoption and the impacts of new tech on family life.

Pinsker has also worked as a professional musician prior to her writing career.

The author is known for her easily readable writing style, making the book accessible to both new and seasoned sci-fi readers.

The story includes elements of social critique, particularly around corporate responsibility and personal choice regarding technology.

Pinsker's writing is compared to authors like Blake Crouch and Andy Weir.

A significant character trait in the book is the portrayal of the children navigating a world that powerfully endorses the new technology.

The story is recognized for its human portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters, showcasing a lesbian couple raising their kids.

Emotional depth is explored as one chapter reportedly moved readers to tears.

The novel's pacing is considered slower but allows for deep character exploration and development.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include discussions of ableism, mental health issues, technological critique, and corporate malfeasance.

From The Publisher:

"Taut and elegant, carefully introspected and thoughtfully explored."-The New York Times

From Hugo award-winning author Sarah Pinsker comes a novel about one family and the technology that divides them.

Everybody's getting one.

Val and Julie just want what's best for their kids, David and Sophie. So when teenage son David comes home one day asking for a Pilot, a new brain implant to help with school, they reluctantly agree. This is the future, after all.

Soon, Julie feels mounting pressure at work to get a Pilot to keep pace with her colleagues, leaving Val and Sophie part of the shrinking minority of people without the device.

Before long, the implications are clear, for the family and society: get a Pilot or get left behind. With government subsidies and no downside, why would anyone refuse? And how do you stop a technology once it's everywhere? Those are the questions Sophie and her anti-Pilot movement rise up to answer, even if it puts them up against the Pilot's powerful manufacturer and pits Sophie against the people she loves most.

Ratings (2)

Loved It (2)

Reader Stats (12):

Read It (3)
Want To Read (8)
Not Interested (1)

What can you read after
We Are Satellites?

See the list (100 books)

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.