Strange Days by Sharon Mikeworth

A grim, compelling tale of survival, Strange Days by Sharon Mikeworth takes a fresh angle on apocalyptic fiction.

When a mysterious illness springs up and tears across America, young Skye Cassidy’s life begins to crumble around her. Her parents fall victim to the disease, as do her various other short-lived allies and friends – Charlene, Liz and Chris – leaving her truly alone, teetering on the edge of suicidal thoughts and deep existential depression. However, her determination to live is rekindled, even if her sanity hangs by a thread.

This is a book highlighting the loneliness of the human experience, which is powerfully conveyed even without the context of an epidemic. Skye is a fascinating and complex character, and in this premise of a rapidly emptying world, it is essential to have a unique protagonist at the center driving the story forward. The main misstep is the title, which is already the title of a dystopian film.

That aside, Mikeworth’s insight into human nature is visceral, particularly for readers who have struggled with solitude, trauma and loss. Though this vision of the future is a troubling one, Strange Days works to remind readers of their humanity, and humility, and perhaps spark greater appreciation for all that they already have, and all that they take for granted.

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