"Alongside Night" by J. Neil Schulman is a captivating dystopian science fiction novel that masterfully weaves together themes of economic collapse and governmental oppression. Originally published in 1979, this gripping narrative has often been hailed as a prophetic vision of a society on the brink of collapse due to hyperinflation and authoritarian control.
The book follows the adolescent protagonist, Elliot Vreeland, as he navigates a turbulent world heavily influenced by libertarian ideas and the philosophies of Ayn Rand. As Elliot seeks to uncover the truth behind his father's disappearance, he encounters a secretive group known as the "Agorist Underground," which advocates for free-market solutions as an alternative to the current failing system.
Recognized as an influential piece of speculative fiction, "Alongside Night" presents a compelling narrative rich with action, intellectual rigor, and philosophical inquiry. It challenges readers to reflect on contemporary socio-economic issues through a suspenseful and thought-provoking lens.
Whether you are a fan of political thrillers, speculative fiction, or thought-provoking narratives, "Alongside Night" offers an engrossing journey that resonates even decades after its original publication.