Book: Kazuo Ishiguro's "Klara And The Sun"

I'd heard of the next book on a podcast.  Kazuo Ishiguro's "Klara and the Sun" is a science fiction book that takes place in the near future.  Parents "lift" or genetically augment their children to give them an advantage.  People live isolated lives.  Robots called Artificial Friends (AF) keep children company and socialize with them.

Klara is an AF purchased by a mother for her lifted child (Josie).  We learn that the lifting process can result in lingering illness and potential death.  How far will future parents go - and how much will they risk - to give their children an advantage?  As Josie gets sicker and sicker we learn of a desperate plan of her mother to replace Josie if she doesn't survive the lift.  The plan is not malicious but an act of desperation of a person who already suffered great loss.

The book is written mostly from Klara's perspective.  She cares for her child (Josie) and would do anything to help her.  The book also explores the possibility of an artificial intelligence experiencing religion, spirituality, and faith.

This is an odd little book.  A hint of dystopian life with a dollop of hope at the end.  Not an action packed book but one that makes you think about how our creations will evolve.

I gave this book four of five stars (my typical score for a good, but not great, book with few issues) on Goodreads.  I think this may be one of those books you either love or hate.  I liked it.