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Original Essays | December 12, 2009

The Courage of Others

0 comments By Alexander McCall Smith

I have recently written a novel about life in England during the Second World War. I felt some concern before I tackled this theme — the War... Continue »

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   La's Orchestra Saves the World

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Dan Ronco, May 14, 2007

Breakpoint is another warning about the high voltage danger to our communication networks illustrated in my novel PeaceMaker. Both novels, set in 2012, warn of the vulnerabilities of our computer-linked societies. Disrupt these networks and society crumbles. The equation is simple: Technology + Terrorism = Destruction.

The strength of Breakpoint is Richard Clarke?s insider knowledge of the federal government?s alphabet agencies. As a high-level pro in the Clinton and both Bush administrations, he understands how things work (or don?t, as the case may be). Clarke also has a generally good handle on advanced technologies, although the idea of Living Software --- an intelligent operating system that can construct defect-free code to solve any problem --- is unrealistic.

If you are looking for well-rounded characters that strike a chord, Breakpoint is not for you. But if you?re interested in an exciting techno-thriller with a dramatic portrayal of our high-tech society?s increasing vulnerability to terrorism, strap this one on.

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