Title: Raising Edwin
Author: Eric Valdespino
Publisher: Paramount Ghostwriter
ISBN: 979-8892123457
Pages: 274
Genre: Science fiction
Reviewed: Manik Chaturmutha
Hollywood Book Reviews
Author Eric Valdespino’s novel Raising Edwin is an enthralling and gripping tale of science fiction that transcends space and time, lacing together the destinies of two worlds – human and extraterrestrial beings. The awe-inspiring and scenic landscape of British Columbia is the backdrop of this narrative. Told from the third-person point of view, Margret Stewart, Edwin, Vera, Amber, Jim and Claire function as the prominent characters of this book.
The plot of this book kickstarts when an extraterrestrial stealth spacecraft mistakenly lands on Mount Athabasca in British Columbia with three human hybrids. These aliens were sent out to seek a planet inhabitable for their kind of species known as ‘hydrates’ but their spacecraft malfunctions and lands on the extremely frigid Mount Athabasca. Facing harsh climate conditions, three human hybrids aboard the spacecraft struggle for survival. Tragically, two of them succumb to starvation and unfavourable climate conditions. However, the last surviving hybrid, before dying, transfers his “life essence” or genetic material into Amber Winston, making her pregnant with a ‘human hybrid.’ Amber does not wish to take upon the responsibilities of motherhood early on in her life and promises to give her child to Margret Stewart. On the other hand, the CPU of the malfunctioned alien spacecraft, called “AVA” reactivates and swiftly traces its species’ genetic code within the womb of Amber. What follows is a mesmerising tale of the genesis of a unique hybrid species on Earth through Amber’s and Margret’s child, Edwin, who possesses greater intelligence and compassion than humans.
Margret Stewart, the female protagonist of this narrative, is portrayed as a witty and successful businesswoman who longs to be a mother. Through the character of Margret, Eric Valdespino has attempted to depict the intricacies and complexities associated with motherhood and womanhood. As this book progresses, describing Edwin’s blooming life, it pushes the margins of science fiction. It weaves together a captivating tale of parenthood, love, destiny and the uncharted territory of human-alien interaction. Through this thrilling saga, Eric Valdespino offers a novel approach towards the human-alien connection, depicting a positive progression of their union. By doing so, he veers away from the stereotypical sci-fi narratives which negatively portray extraterrestrial beings. Valdespino’s linear narrative, proper chapter organization, and impeccable writing make this book even more interesting and enjoyable.
Raising Edwin is highly recommended for enthusiasts of gripping sci-fi stories featuring alien interactions and futuristic technological advancements. It presents a fresh perspective on the human-alien connection, delivering an engaging and enjoyable reading experience. Raising Edwin, is a truly unique, out-of-this world story that is hard to walk away from.