Review: Juniper Time by Kate Wilhelm

Synopsis: Published in 1979, this novel is set in a drought-ridden America, in a world of social and economic collapse.

This tale switches between the perspectives of a scientist named Cluny, and a naturalist and photographer named Jean. They are reunited when they become part of a study to learn more about extraterrestrial contact.

Review: Set in the years following a drought so horrible is collapses the world economy, Kate Wilhelm explores the idea of hope and time as it relates to both the individual and the community. The main characters are tossed through a series of events that eventually lead them to a place where they can alter the course of human destiny – either to hope or to destruction.

As with her previous work, it is the rich and complete characters that Wilhelm writes that make the story. Her focus on the people, even side characters draw the reader in and sink them into the story, even when the plot is tends toward trite or confusing.

In this story, it is Jean’s strength in the face of immense pain and trauma that create a story worth reading. Yes, there are some odd points, and I would not say this was Wilhelm’s best, but it is a solid science fiction story about hope and humanity.

Bookmarks: 3.5 of 5

Awards: Nebula Award Nominee (1979), Prix Apollo (1981)

ISBN: N/A
Year Published: 1979
Date Finished: 1-28-19
Pages: 250