Book Review: Heart of Gold

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Heart of Gold     Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
Sharon Shinn
Class/Genre:   Science Fiction   Romance
Ace, Apr 2000, $14.95, 268 pp.

In a galaxy far from this planet, lies a world similar in many respects to that of earth. On one of that planet’s continents live three sentient races. The Blueskins range in color from sky blue to Navy, the different shades representing that person’s place in the caste system. The Gulden are golden in color. Finally, the Whiteskins are albinos. The Blueskins dominate the planet feeling culturally and intellectually superior to the other races. They also are larger in population and control much of the available landmass.

However, unrest and rebellion are brewing with a Gulden warrior, Jex Zarlon, who serves as the symbol of the coming revolution. Jailed for bombing a city building, he is the rallying point of his people in their quest for equality and racial parity. However, extreme conservative forces within the Blueskin government conspire to keep the status quo, entering into a conspiracy that will achieve their goal. When scientist Nolan Adolphe discovers what his own people are planning for an unsuspecting race, he does everything possible to stop and expose the planned holocaust.

After reading HEART OF GOLD, the audience will compare Sharon Shinn’s highly developed imaginary world with South Africa’s apartheid system and the de jure segregated South United States. This extraordinary work is indeed science fiction of the highest caliber but it is also an allegory that condemns prejudice and intolerance. The characters are well-drawn and extremely complex beings that constantly question their place in the established world order. Ms. Shinn scores big time with this triumphant piece and shows how high science fiction can soar when a creative author writes it.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner