Authority: A Novel

As a work of science fiction, VanderMeer takes inspiration from many scientific phenomena. Research a scientific occurrence showcased in this novel, such as environmental contamination or hypnosis. Analyze the accuracy of the novel’s premise to scientific facts. How does VanderMeer portray and expand upon this idea? What did you learn by exploring this concept? Cite research and textual evidence.

Analyze the novel as a whole by giving it a review. What did you like and dislike about the novel and why? How effective was VanderMeer’s writing? Provide specific reasons supported by textual evidence.

Evaluate the nonlinear structure of the novel. Why do you think VanderMeer moves around in time and space (often in the same chapters, shown by page breaks) instead of telling the story chronologically? What mood does this technique create in readers?