A review by jessicastephenson
The Ones We're Meant to Find by Joan He

adventurous emotional mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This book has immediately taken a spot in my top favourites of the year, probably even of all time. Usually for me when a book tries to touch on too many topics, it feels messy and lacking, but that was not the case here. Some of the topics and themes tackled in this book include sustainability, climate change, human rights, right/wrong, morals, familial bonds, terminal illness, neurodivergence, and so much more. 

I think the thing I love most is this book made me think, and has kept me thinking for several days after finishing it. What would I do if I were in each of the characters places? What is ethically and morally right? Should our generation sacrifice to save a future generation? Would I be willing to live in an "eco-city" and experience a significant portion of my life as a holograph in order to preserve earth's resources? 

Overall I found the concept to be quite intriguing, however I haven't read a ton of science fiction literature so for someone who reads the genre often, this book may not hit the same way. I would definitely read this again at some point because I feel like it's the kind of story that only gets better with a second read.