Utopia is a popular theme in science fiction and there is typically a dystopian side in the same world. You know that, at some point in the plot, there will be a clash of worlds. The Ferryman, by Justin Cronin, takes those basic elements, leads readers along the expected path and then flips things over and around.

Readers start questioning what’s happening from the start, with a prologue that sets the stage for things not being as perfect as they seem. We then dive right into that world, finding out how things are run on Prospera and what life is like for those devoting their lives to excellence. Then there’s the mystery of the Nursery and the function of a ferryman – sounds ominous and yet residents accept these things as part of life. (And I’m not going further into it, because everything gets spoilery!)

Justin Cronin is a great world builder. The utopia of Prospera is well-developed, as is the dystopian side known as the Annex, populated by the lower classes working for Prosperans. But just as you’re getting immersed in this world, the surface starts to crack and something entirely different shows up. It’s mind-bending at times and there’s a twist that is so obscurely foreshadowed that it’s a surprise when it happens.

Sure, this is a long book at more than 500 pages and it may intimidate some, but if you want a well written and exciting piece of scifi, it is so worth it. It’s always a nice surprise when a book like this keeps a reader wanting more.