Imagine a world where guns couldn't cause harm. That was just what Gerry Miller did when he invented LifeSheild. What he didn't imagine was the impact it would have on society. Or how fast his invention would mutate into something dangerous. The Strings of Pandora follows Gerry from childhood, showing the roots of his desire to stunt societies violence.

As he begins his career in Quantum Theory, the idea for LifeSheild begins to form-- a personal safety device that diverts projectiles to an alternate space. The altruistic decision to release the specifics of the shield to the public causes unintended consequences, for both Gerry and society at large.

The Strings of Pandora by Mel & Kip Praissman has many interesting ideas and shows a great picture of the unintended consequences of technology. I did find parts of the story rambled and the beginning was way to long. All of the background of Gerry's childhood was too drawn out. I also disliked the abruptness of the ending. I suspect it was meant to be open ended to encourage thinking and discussion, but the story just seemed to stop.

My Recommendation
With its intriguing examples of technology's consequences The Strings of Pandora by Mel & Kip Praissman is a nice example of sociological science fiction. If you can wade through the long background chapters, it's a nice read.

The Strings of Pandora by Mel & Kip Praissman
Published by Marmalade Books
376 pages

The Strings of Pandora by Mel & Kip Praissman is available at Amazon.com

My review copy of The Strings of Pandora was provided by the author.