China Miéville’s hotly anticipated new novel, Railsea, is another triumphant title from the master of the most intricate science fiction and fantasy novels. Sham, a young doctor’s assistant, embarks on a search for life and meaning on a train expedition to hunt a legendary creature: what he finds, however, is a great secret among the bones of a train wreck at the edges of the world. As Sham makes the impulsive decision to use the impossible knowledge he gains, he may be undertaking a journey into disaster. Railsea is a wonderful novel for adults and young adults alike, with all of China’s trademark warmth, complexity and wit.
We are very pleased to welcome China back to Ely: he is a charming speaker with the ability to transform even the most complex philosophical concept into the heart of an engaging tale. This will be a fascinating evening, for both long time fans and newcomers to China’s work!