Monthly Spotlight: A Psalm for the Wild-Built
In the first installment of Becky Chambers’ solarpunk “Monk and Robot“ duology, a chance encounter between a tea monk and a robot leads both to question their place and purpose in the world.
Photo Credit: Erin Eisenhour
“…We’re machines, and machines are objects. Objects are its.“
“I’d say you’re more than just an object,” Dex said.
The robot looked a touch offended. “I would never call you just an animal, Sibling Dex.” It turned its gaze to the road, head held high. “We don’t have to fall into the same category to be of equal value.”
GENRE: Science fiction / Solarpunk / Hopepunk
THE PITCH: Long ago, the robots of Panga gained sentience, only to disappear into the wilderness, never to be seen again. Centuries later, Sibling Dex, a traveling tea monk, pedals from town to town, brewing custom teas and listening to other people’s problems. But a moment of existential crisis sets Dex on a journey of self-discovery, deep into Panga’s flourishing, untouched wilds. Or not so untouched. Dex doesn’t get far before encountering Mosscap, a robot with a quest. Mosscap cannot return to its own kind until it answers the same question Dex has been asking: “What do people need?“
SERIES OR STANDALONE: Book #1 of the “Monk and Robot” duology
CONTENT WARNINGS: Strong language
YOU SHOULD READ THIS BOOK IF:
You could really use a good cup of tea. Or a hug. Tea that tastes like a hug?
You don’t know what you’re doing with your life.
You thought you knew what you were doing with your life, but you’ve suddenly realized that you don’t, and you can’t decide if that’s worse.
You’re tired of grimdark.
You love getting philosophical about robots—ideally with robots.
BEST ENJOYED: Curled up in a patch of sunlight with a hot cup of tea while wearing your best and brightest jumper