Trouble with Lichen

John Wyndham — 1963

Francis Saxover and Diana Brackley, two scientists investigating a rare lichen, discover it has a remarkable property: it retards the aging process. Francis, realising the implications for the world of an ever-youthful, wealthy elite, wants to keep it secret, but Diana sees an opportunity to overturn the male status quo by using the lichen to inspire a feminist revolution. As each scientist wrestles with the implications and practicalities of exploiting the discovery, the world comes ever closer to learning the truth . . . Trouble With Lichen is a scintillating story of the power wielded by science in our lives and asks how much trust should we place in those we appoint to be its guardians?

Reviews

Stephanie Boisvert@stephcandy

Dec 26, 2024

This book was very interesting, if anything I would say it was a bit too short. This almost could have been in a short story anthology book. Even though it was over 200 pages, I felt like it didn't explain enough and some of the "overheard conversations" and side plots didn't add to the story. Just made me more confused than anything. Still gave it 4 stars because the main story was solid. Very interested to know what became of Diana.

Maurice FitzGerald@soraxtm

Dec 10, 2023

passed the time. not sure what this really meant. I wonder if there is some political statement i don't get. It didn't seem like people would act that why but what do i know.

Charlotte Dann@chareads

Feb 6, 2023

The philosophical dilemma posed here is endlessly fascinating, and is going to turn over in my head for decades to come, but I didn't find the content/arc of this book particularly enjoyable to actually read.

Delaney LaFalce@irl_truck

Jul 28, 2022

Vladimir@vkosmosa

May 7, 2023

Phil James@philjames

Sep 3, 2021

Bec Rose@bec

Sep 3, 2021

Benjamin Harlow@Benjamin

Jul 28, 2021