The Demolished Man, by Alfred Bester
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It is difficult to judge this book fairly so many years after it was published. Many if not all of its conventions have now become mainstream, and have been retold in more (and less) compelling ways.
What that means for a first time reader of this novel is that all of its major revelations fall flat. Before the popular science fiction films of the last twenty years, this story — based on other reviews — must have been very fresh and original.
Even today, the premise is the real strength of this novel. It is well-conceived and reinforced throughout — not by the continuous use of jargon or laborious explanation, but by rich characters whose actions and feelings are believable responses to the strange world they inhabit.
However, I found the writing itself average. There were a few thoughtful passages, but overall it was a good story, simply told, with an ordinary command of the language.
This book is no longer new or surprising, but if you enjoy sci-fi stories about dark, realistic characters with special mental abilities, you will likely enjoy it.
