Who Would Like This Book:
If you love stories that pack a serious punch in just a few pages, this novella is right up your alley. It feels a lot like a Black Mirror episode, with a near-future, dystopian twist on the immigration process that makes you question society, morality, and the weight of the choices we make. The writing is tight and the tension is real - you'll probably read it in one sitting and keep thinking about it for days. Perfect for fans of psychological drama, speculative fiction, and anyone who likes to ponder tough questions about belonging and humanity. If books like The Handmaid’s Tale or 1984 are your jam - or you enjoy dark thrillers with a conscience - you’ll find a lot to chew on here.
Who May Not Like This Book:
This book definitely isn’t for everyone. If you’re sensitive to stories involving intense psychological pressure, violence, or bleak dystopian themes, you might find it upsetting or even a bit too dark. Some readers felt that the premise stretched credibility a bit too far, or wanted more depth given the heavy subject matter. Others found it depressing, with little in the way of hope or comfort. If you’re looking for light escapism or a feel-good read, you might want to steer clear or save it for another time.
About:
'The Test' by Sylvain Neuvel is a novella that delves into a dystopian future where immigrants are subjected to a citizenship test that takes a dark and twisted turn. The story follows Idir Jalil as he faces a life-altering test to determine his fate and that of his family, exploring themes of inhuman treatment, immigration, and the impact of government actions on individuals. The writing style is described as concise, intense, and gripping, keeping readers glued to the pages from start to finish.
Genres:
Tropes/Plot Devices:
Topics:
Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include intense psychological themes, gun violence, and existential crises.
From The Publisher:
Award-winning author Sylvain Neuvel explores an immigration dystopia in The Test
Britain, the not-too-distant future.
Idir is sitting the British Citizenship Test.
He wants his family to belong.
Twenty-five questions to determine their fate. Twenty-five chances to impress.
When the test takes an unexpected and tragic turn, Idir is handed the power of life and death.
How do you value a life when all you have is multiple choice?
Ratings (26)
Incredible (7) | |
Loved It (10) | |
Liked It (2) | |
It Was OK (5) | |
Did Not Like (2) |
Reader Stats (48):
Read It (27) | |
Want To Read (18) | |
Did Not Finish (1) | |
Not Interested (2) |
3 comment(s)
4.2
I'm glad the twist was revealed early, as the story is kinda flat without the deeper story. Turns out to be very thought provoking, and ironic in a way. I wish there was more on the background events, because the deeper story feels hard to justify without the context of what led to the state of the world
"The test", a story about human emotions, decision making, who we are really inside, what will we do when we have choices to make between life or death. Protagonist taking a 'Test' which will grant him and his family citizenship. But it turns out to be a simulation test which he doesn't know. This test makes him realise and re think about himself.
A perfect specimen of a book that depicts the dehumanization of immigrants by the powerful, rich countries. The nations that got rich off of the countries whose peoole they now deny entry to.
What can you read after
The Test?
About the Author:
Sylvain Neuvel has taught linguistics in India, and worked as a software engineer in Montreal. He is also a certified translator, though he wishes he were an astronaut. His girlfriend would have him believe that he has too many toys, so he writes about aliens and giant robots as a blatant excuse to build action figures (for his son, of course). His debut, Sleeping Giants, was described by NPR as "one of the most promising series kickoffs in recent memory."
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.
