Nalo Hopkinson, (though a web search reveals her to be a relative new author), seems to have made her unique mark on Science Fiction largely because that voice is grounded in the rhythms, myths, and vernacular of Caribbean and Creole cultures. I mean, she is clearly not the only Science Fiction author to bring a recognizable contemporary culture other than American-flavored Caucasian to the SciFi stage, but let’s face it: Name another SciFi writer of African heritage besides Delaney and Butler.

Upon reading a science fiction book that creates a new sentient species, it is always interesting to consider how that species differs from humans, as the departure from a human model is a commentary on how the author views humankind. Specifically, it usually points out the perceived flaws in human interactions, politics, overall behavior, and response to environment.

I take issue with Nalo Hopkinson’s portrayal of love in Midnight robber. In particular, I object to the way that the story of Antonio plays out. I acknowledge that he was always a clearly flawed character, but I didn’t see him as someone who was beyond saving in the beginning of the book. In fact, I saw him as a uniquely empathetic character, in that he clearly loved his daughter. He may have been a sinister mayor, with a desire to keep secrets from Nanny and the public, but in the beginning, it seems like he is not all selfishness.