LastGenerations

LastGenerations is a science fiction novella by American author Blake Crouch, published in 2024. The story is set in a near-future where humanity faces an existential threat from climate change and resource depletion. It follows the journey of a young woman named Anya who is chosen to participate in a desperate plan to preserve humanity's future.

The core concept of LastGenerations revolves around a controversial project that aims to genetically engineer future generations to be more resilient to the harsh environmental conditions. Anya, along with a select group of others, is subjected to this experimental procedure, facing both physical and psychological challenges. The novella explores themes of survival, sacrifice, the ethics of genetic modification, and the definition of what it means to be human in the face of extinction.

Crouch's narrative style in LastGenerations is characterized by its fast pace and accessible prose, making complex scientific ideas understandable to a broad audience. The story builds tension as Anya grapples with the implications of her altered state and the sacrifices required for the survival of the species. The novella serves as a cautionary tale about the potential consequences of unchecked environmental degradation and the difficult choices humanity might face in its fight for survival. It prompts readers to consider the long-term implications of current actions on future generations.