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Reviewed by Chad Richins for Readers' Favorite
In The Holographic New Clothes by W. J. Sam, we’re taken into a captivating future where traditional clothing is a thing of the past, replaced by amazing nanotechnological artificial skin that not only projects stunning holographic outfits but also helps regulate our body functions. The story follows a protagonist who steps out into the world after 23 years of living in a self-sustaining underground bunker. He finds himself in a beautiful, dome-enclosed city where everyone thrives in a controlled ecosystem, but it all feels a bit too perfect, almost like a beautiful illusion. What makes him stand out is his decision to stick to his natural self and not adopt the artificial skin that everyone else uses. This choice turns him into something of a rarity in this shiny society. As he navigates through bouts of fame, moments of disillusionment, and the deeper truths about humanity, the protagonist faces the struggle of wanting to fit in while also yearning to be true to himself
W. J. Sam beautifully explores some deep themes around technology, identity, and what it means to be authentic, which gives readers a lot to think about regarding life. The story is quite a ride, pulling readers into its intriguing dystopian setting with vivid and imaginative world-building. The idea of artificial skin and how it shapes identities is thought-provoking. The pacing is a mix of fast and slow. The beginning draws readers in, while the explanation of the dome’s ecosystem and the technical side of the artificial skin slows things down a bit. The protagonist's journey is truly compelling, offering a genuine look at the push and pull between being yourself and meeting societal expectations. Supporting characters like Uncle Li and the girl from the rain add their charm to the story. W. J. Sam raises important questions about the price of our technological world and what reality means. The Holographic New Clothes is straightforward and purposeful, making it a thoughtful read.
