The Culling

By: Nathan Samuels

Narrated by: Lauren Legé Daiberl

In a world where science has unlocked the secret to perpetual youth and health, maintaining a functioning society is paramount to humanity’s survival. Every person has a role and a purpose in the world, preserving balance and order. Should unspeakable tragedy occur and leave a void, raising a replacement is necessary.

A rising class of replacements learn their place in society. Their youth and innocence stand in striking contrast to those who are well-established. When fitting in is mandatory for citizens, leaders have found ways to ensure this requirement is met. Or at least that is what we are told.

©2023 Nathan W. Samuels (P)2024 Nathan W. Samuels

Perfection is an illusion

“The Culling” takes the reader into a perfected future of our world no longer saddled with sickness or aging. The author, Nathan Samuels, incorporated just enough medical information regarding genetic engineering to make the plot premise believable and interesting yet not enough to overwhelm someone without a medical background.

What struck me the most about this book is how easily people forget that humanity’s quest for perfection always comes with a price. A pristine outer appearance cannot hide forever the dark depths of those in power.

The subject matter and nearly emotionless inhabitants of the genetically modified future made it a little difficult to connect with the main characters. The narrator’s tone and cadence matched the book’s pacing, making the story monotonous at times.

There were no issues with the quality or production of this audiobook.