By Light Alone

By Light Alone by Adam Roberts, published by Gollancz in 2011, is a thought-provoking exploration of a future where humanity has been genetically engineered to photosynthesize sunlight, rendering hunger obsolete. In this world, the disparity between the rich and the poor is starkly illustrated through their hair—while the affluent flaunt baldness as a status symbol, the less fortunate grow their hair to survive. The narrative centers around the kidnapping of a young girl from a wealthy New York family and the subsequent arrival of a woman claiming to be their long-lost daughter, raising questions about identity and belonging.

Readers will find a rich tapestry of ideas woven into this science fiction narrative, which delves into themes of wealth, societal structure, and the complexities of human relationships. The story unfolds against a backdrop reminiscent of a Fitzgerald-esque New York, blending elements of affluence with a unique art-deco style. With 407 pages of engaging prose, this edition invites readers to ponder the implications of a world where food is merely an indulgence, yet other hungers persist.