As usual, by the time I picked up this book, I don't recall why I put it in my reading list in the first place. But yes, this book ended up on my reading list at some point. Perhaps because I was interested in the Tibet region, in Shangri-La, I really don't remember anymore. But in any case, it was an interesting sample of utopian literature.
See, this book essentially depicts a utopia, i.e., Shangri-La, as a mystical hidden place, deep in the Himalayas. Its inhabitants are unknown to the rest of the world, and for some reason, they age very slow, living as if they are immortal. And as they live secluded from the rest of the world, it essentially is a controlled space. However, at some point, they needed new members, so they kidnap four people, which is where the story begins.
These different people have different motives. One of them want to leave as soon as possible. Another has a motive to actually stay, as the outside world is trying to catch him due to various crimes. The main character shows a different disposition, and perhaps is the most interesting. In any case, I really liked this book, as it explored the various facets of utopia, longevity, as well as the human condition. Humans always wanted to attain eternal life, but assuming one does have it, what does it do to one's priorities? What happens when you realise that you have all the time in the world to study music? Or a field in science? Or any other topic you find interesting? Suddenly, the urge to do it fast and right now goes away. This book explored this philosophical angle in great detail.
I also liked the mixture of fantasy and dystopian elements in this book. It's not the longest book around, as it's just hovering around 200 pages. But it definitely is packed with many interesting threads that makes one think twice about what one is reading. So yes, overall I absolutely enjoyed this book. I would give it 5 out of 5 stars.
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