Brainwalker | By Robyn Mundell and Stephen Lacast
![Brainwalker Brainwalker](https://bookbugworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Brainwalker.jpg)
About the Author
Brainwalker is a science fiction novel written by the duo Robyn Mundell and Stephen Lacast. Robyn Mundell is an award winning playwright and Stephen Lacast worked an I T engineer before becoming an author. The concept of the book was developed by a vision that Stephen had based on a dream Robyn had.
I received a copy of this book from the Booktasters in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis
Bernard has always felt out of place. Just like any other kid who always asks that odd question in the class and comes up with impractical and over-imaginative ideas that makes no sense to adults. One fine day when he accompanied his father to his office, after being reprimanded for his behavior in school, Bernard does what any other forteen year old boy does. He wandered in the office looking for the particle collider. However, as the collider roars into life, with Bernard at it’s vicinity, he travels through a wormhole and enters a different world. It doesn’t take long for him to figure out that this world was in fact his father’s brain and if he didn’t act fast his father’s life could be in danger.
You can visit this website if you’re interested to find more about the Brainiverse : Brainwalker
My thoughts
Narrative and plot
When I read the synopsis to Brainwalker, I pictured something like the movie Inside Out. Atleast that is what I expected to find. But this book lead me inside a marvelous world ( using the word Marvelous because it embodies something that is akin to the Marvel Universe). The story is narrated by an innocent child. It never misses a beat of awe and wonder just like a kid who is mesmerised by anything even by the wild mushrooms. Coupled with a strong and adventurous plot this was a fun as well as enlightening read.
Characters and Conflict
First of all, I admit I’ve a starting trouble while reading books that takes place in a different world with whimsical creatures. This book was extraordinarily stimulating and unique in that sense. The brilliant fact is it creates a world where anything is possible if your brain has the power to imagine it. Pun intended of course.
Even though the characters were whimsical in nature they managed to connect with you as readers. They have meaningful relationships and character arcs. The journey of being irresponsible or rather intuitive kids to being saviors is incredible.
As mentioned in the synopsis, the book has a vivid conflict and the entire story is focused on resolving it. But if you look closely there is a deeper meaning to it. It points out the need to have a moderation and balance to sustain. It applies not only to the Brainiverse but our environment as well. Beyond that the concept applies to individuals and the system that we work on as well. One concept that has so many interpretations fascinates you as a reader.
There isn’t anything in particular about the book that I disliked. If I had to be picky I would say some of the world building was a bit complex initially. But I love science fiction. The endless possibilities using the scientific hypothesis and the creative story that supports it always thrills me.
Conclusion
Brainwalker is one of the top favorites of the year for me. There could be only two possibilities. Either you love this book or you could just not relate to the concept. This is meant for a particular breed of readers. If you fit into that profile, it is a must read. If you’re a reader looking for adventurous stories and are open to ideas and looking for something refreshing in every story rather than the traditional fantasy, just pick this one. Beyond a science fiction, it fits into the genre of YA fantasy. If you love such books, then this would be an effortless read. I would recommend everyone to try this book for once. If you’re open to the idea, you’ll end up loving it.
1 Response
[…] Brainwalker is perhaps one of the first middle grade fantasy book that I read as an adult. It just blew my mind and was the perfect reminder I needed to see that middle grade books can bring such fresh perspective to adults. This book not only brings you the sense of wonder and joy, but forces you to think. You can read ny thoughts on this one, here. […]