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We Care For You
Margaret Woodruff is slowly dying in a care home. When her son is presented with the chance of exceptional care in her final months, he finds the offer hard to resist.Winifred is assigned to Margaret’s care. She’s a a new kind of carer that’s capable, committed and completely tireless – because she’s a synthetic human being.Under Winifred’s care Margaret’s health improves beyond everyone’s expectations, and Winifred begins to learn from Margaret what it means to be alive. After all, she has a lifetime of experience to pass on – and in a world where youth is the ultimate prize, perhaps it takes a robot to recognise the value of old age.But how will Winifred use what she learns from Margaret – and what does she truly want from her?
240 pages, Paperback
First published November 14, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
February 8, 2018
I hoped to like this book more, and I still love the ideas and the bottom line. The way it explored what it is being human, as opposed to not being able to comprehend being human. And also, the dilemma of creating an artificial creature whose mind is based in logic, and so is completely backwards to our own - and to what drives us. It can only eventually lead to disaster.
However, apart from maybe several last pages, this book is not dystopian. It's also a little bit sluggish, and it's mostly full of philosophising about human nature and the mind's connection to the rest of the cognizant world. All important and fitting topics, but... also, kind of boring to read about. That is possibly it's quite mechanically executed - understandable as well, cause most of it is told through the perspective of an android. But it does make for some pretty dull reading, unfortunately. You will like this book if you're looking for some musings on the meaning of life, consciousness and what drives human beings, or a study on human virtues. But you won't, if you want anything to happen in the book. Cause it literally doesn't.
I thank Unbound for the free copy of this book that I received in exchange to my honest review. And I'd also like to me ton that it's really cool how this book was funded! Apparently, crowdfunding a book is now thing. You can find out more at unbound.com
My Blog | My Bookstagram | Bookish Twitter
However, apart from maybe several last pages, this book is not dystopian. It's also a little bit sluggish, and it's mostly full of philosophising about human nature and the mind's connection to the rest of the cognizant world. All important and fitting topics, but... also, kind of boring to read about. That is possibly it's quite mechanically executed - understandable as well, cause most of it is told through the perspective of an android. But it does make for some pretty dull reading, unfortunately. You will like this book if you're looking for some musings on the meaning of life, consciousness and what drives human beings, or a study on human virtues. But you won't, if you want anything to happen in the book. Cause it literally doesn't.
I thank Unbound for the free copy of this book that I received in exchange to my honest review. And I'd also like to me ton that it's really cool how this book was funded! Apparently, crowdfunding a book is now thing. You can find out more at unbound.com
My Blog | My Bookstagram | Bookish Twitter
March 23, 2018
4.5 stars. I was hoping this would be sinister and it was! And it also raises many questions.
Firstly there is the commentary on how we care (or rather don’t care) for our elderly in the West. They are often forgotten, neglected and placed in nursing homes. My own mum is well into old age and it made me feel quite uncomfortable thinking about her future, and indeed my own.
Then there are the questions of what happens when the technology can do more and be more than humans? What does being alive mean?
‘ information isn’t knowledge, isn’t wisdom?’
What are the implications of technology capable of healing, repairing, regenerating the human body? Is it desirable to have a longer life if you outlive everyone you ever knew or loved?
A thought provoking read.
Many thanks to Netgalley for an arc of this book. All opinions are my own.
Firstly there is the commentary on how we care (or rather don’t care) for our elderly in the West. They are often forgotten, neglected and placed in nursing homes. My own mum is well into old age and it made me feel quite uncomfortable thinking about her future, and indeed my own.
Then there are the questions of what happens when the technology can do more and be more than humans? What does being alive mean?
‘ information isn’t knowledge, isn’t wisdom?’
What are the implications of technology capable of healing, repairing, regenerating the human body? Is it desirable to have a longer life if you outlive everyone you ever knew or loved?
A thought provoking read.
Many thanks to Netgalley for an arc of this book. All opinions are my own.
January 14, 2019
★★★☆☆
«(About Art) We use it to understand the world. And ourselves. To communicate with each other. To give ourselves joy, to experience heightened emotions and to transcend our earthly state.»
England, 2022. Margaret Woodruff, an 87-year-old woman suffering from dementia and almost blind, is in a care home with practically no social interaction and mediocre care. Her son John feels guilty about his mother's situation, but he can’t do much more for her, except for going see her from time to time. He feels this way until he’s offered the chance to participate in the new Eldercare's care program, through which synthetic human beings or Helpers have been created (robots, although we can’t call them that) and specialized in caring for the elderly. Each of those synthetic human beings will be assigned to one patient. Margaret is assigned to Winifred and under her care her health will be drastically restored thanks to the new technology of nanobots.
Under this premise, I already expected a sci-fi novel in the 'robots are gonna take control of the world' style and I have to say that during all the reading I was waiting for something bad happening. The metaphor of the spider and the wasp larvae helped me considerably to read the book fearing for Margaret and all the elderly residents there. The truth is that it’s been a book that I liked a lot. Not only explores sci-fi and nanotechnology and robotics, but it also shows us the realistic problems faced by the elderly in care homes around the world.
The book is divided into chapters-months and the story takes a whole year. I loved that in each part we had different POVs of the main characters —John, Margaret and Winifred— and the chapter with the POV of the nanobots seemed really original. I loved the narrative style, and the way the writer has managed to give each character their own style and language (it’s been especially interesting to see the evolution of Winifred's language and all the changes that were going on operating in her mind thanks to the interaction she had with Margaret). In addition, the short chapters made it a very agile and entertaining reading.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an enjoyable read with well-developed characters, and specially to those who like sci-fi and everything related to new technologies and robots.
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
P. S. I'm not English, so if you see any mistakes let me know so I can correct them, please.
December 31, 2017
GNA John and his siblings had to place their mother Margaret into an inpatient care facility, Evergreen Care Home, Dorking, Surrey, two and a half years back in 2020 when she was no longer able to care for herself. John is the only child who lives locally, and he visits Margaret as often as he can make himself - but it is hard, and she is not really there. Margaret at 87 is blind, bound to a wheelchair, and suffering rather severe dementia. But then the nursing home is taken over by a firm called ElderCare in 2022.... And everything changes. Margaret becomes herself again, regains her memory, her sight, and even finds it easier each day to walk and talk.
ElderCare doesn't employ nurses and assistants - their entire care staff is comprised of robots -
under the supervision of humans, of course. Janet Goodenough is the manager of the home, a 48 year old English woman who has worked at the facility for many years and knows all of the patients well. Mr. Steven Jordan is the Chief Executive Officer of ElderCare, and Dr. Angela Morton is the Chief Scientific Officer and the main developer and builder of the robotic staff, though they prefer to be known as synthetic humans. Winifred will be Margarets' caregiver, and both Margarets' life and that of the other residents of ElderCare changes dramatically in just days, especially once the nanobots are introduced into the seniors, replenishing and restoring the body and brain from within. Within weeks the nursing home could be mistaken for a fancy hotel - everyone has things they want to do, places they want to go, mobility and energy they haven't had for 30 or 40 years. Once the press gets hold of this story, things start moving at an incredible rate. Robots of every conceivable talent are being whipped through an assembly line and selling like hotcakes. As are the nanobots - custom tailored to handle most illnesses from arthritis to cancer and everything in between.
Sounds too good to be true, right? Did your Grandmother tell you that if it sounds like it's too good to be true - RUN to the nearest exit? Mine did. Fortunately Granny didn't have to go to a nursing home. She passed at 92 while mowing her lawn. But I have had loved ones who have had to go to nursing homes. Anyone who has had to be a frequent visitor at such a place will view this novel as the answer to a prayer. For a little while, anyway.
I received a free electronic copy of this novel from Netgalley, Paul Kitcatt, and Unbound Digital in exchange for an honest review. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me. Your endeavor with Unbound sounds wonderful - I wish you the best of luck with this new look at publishing.
pub date Nov 14, 2017
rec Dec 4, 2017
Unbound Digital
Not available at B&N
ElderCare doesn't employ nurses and assistants - their entire care staff is comprised of robots -
under the supervision of humans, of course. Janet Goodenough is the manager of the home, a 48 year old English woman who has worked at the facility for many years and knows all of the patients well. Mr. Steven Jordan is the Chief Executive Officer of ElderCare, and Dr. Angela Morton is the Chief Scientific Officer and the main developer and builder of the robotic staff, though they prefer to be known as synthetic humans. Winifred will be Margarets' caregiver, and both Margarets' life and that of the other residents of ElderCare changes dramatically in just days, especially once the nanobots are introduced into the seniors, replenishing and restoring the body and brain from within. Within weeks the nursing home could be mistaken for a fancy hotel - everyone has things they want to do, places they want to go, mobility and energy they haven't had for 30 or 40 years. Once the press gets hold of this story, things start moving at an incredible rate. Robots of every conceivable talent are being whipped through an assembly line and selling like hotcakes. As are the nanobots - custom tailored to handle most illnesses from arthritis to cancer and everything in between.
Sounds too good to be true, right? Did your Grandmother tell you that if it sounds like it's too good to be true - RUN to the nearest exit? Mine did. Fortunately Granny didn't have to go to a nursing home. She passed at 92 while mowing her lawn. But I have had loved ones who have had to go to nursing homes. Anyone who has had to be a frequent visitor at such a place will view this novel as the answer to a prayer. For a little while, anyway.
I received a free electronic copy of this novel from Netgalley, Paul Kitcatt, and Unbound Digital in exchange for an honest review. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me. Your endeavor with Unbound sounds wonderful - I wish you the best of luck with this new look at publishing.
pub date Nov 14, 2017
rec Dec 4, 2017
Unbound Digital
Not available at B&N
June 15, 2018
***Note: I received a copy curtesy of Netgalley and Unbound in exchange for an honest review.
The setting is pretty much made clear from the blurb: Margaret Woodruff is slowly dying in a care home. When her son is presented with the chance of exceptional care in her final months, he finds the offer hard to resist.
Winifred is assigned to Margaret’s care. She’s a Helper: a new kind of carer that’s capable, committed and completely tireless – because she’s a synthetic human being.
More than being a SF or dystopia novel, this is about the psychological implications of humans trying to accept AI/Robots and nanobots in their everyday lives, caring for their loved ones and about these “synthetic human beings” trying to comprehend what makes a human being, what feelings are and what are they worth, and how they can simulate them, to ease acceptance and integration.
The setting is pretty much made clear from the blurb: Margaret Woodruff is slowly dying in a care home. When her son is presented with the chance of exceptional care in her final months, he finds the offer hard to resist.
Winifred is assigned to Margaret’s care. She’s a Helper: a new kind of carer that’s capable, committed and completely tireless – because she’s a synthetic human being.
More than being a SF or dystopia novel, this is about the psychological implications of humans trying to accept AI/Robots and nanobots in their everyday lives, caring for their loved ones and about these “synthetic human beings” trying to comprehend what makes a human being, what feelings are and what are they worth, and how they can simulate them, to ease acceptance and integration.
They have placed their relatives – in almost all cases, their parents – here to be cared for, because they can’t do it themselves. They pay for this service. But they have contradictory feelings about it, we have been told. They feel guilt, and relief, increased anxiety, reduced anxiety, satisfaction, dissatisfaction, happiness and unhappiness. Sometimes all at once. How is this possible? It is complicated, being human.I very much liked that we get to be in a synthetic human being ’s mind and know their logical thoughts, making it easier for us to see the other side of the coin:
The problem perhaps is that care is something you are supposed to do for others out of a feeling of love. But if you pay someone else to do it, even though it may be logical, because they are better at it, you feel you have failed to do what you should.
I do not have tattoos, of course, and my hair is the colour it was made. My personality is as follows: enthusiastic, committed, competent, calm under pressure, friendly, curious, outgoing and empathetic.There are some attempts at humor from the robots, quite well done, and there is lots of analysis on human behaviour and conventions:
[…]‘ground-breaking’. This metaphor originates in the construction industry, where it refers to an actual, physical activity. I don’t think it happens in advertising, but I have noticed that humans in sedentary and non-manual jobs are fond of metaphors from active, manual labour. Especially men.There are also lots of mentions about social implications of elderly people left in the care of the underpaid and overworked homecare establishments’ workers. The voice of some of this elders, are especially genuine and deep:
[…] social convention, in which the question ‘How are you?’ doesn’t mean ‘How are you?’ It means something like, ‘Hello, I acknowledge your presence, and I wish to convey that I care about you, though if you tell me in too much detail literally how you are, I will become uncomfortable, and also consider you to be a little self-obsessed, when you should have said you were fine, and asked me how I am, expecting the same response, or similar.’
[...] they want food, not just for fuel, no – it has to taste good, and the variety of it is astonishing, and the time they devote to it. Even when they’re not eating, they watch television programmes and read books about it.
They suffer feelings of guilt about all the pleasure they take, knowing some of it harms them, and then off they go and do it all again. Entire religions are built round this to-ing and fro-ing from pleasure to guilt and back again.
I think she’s being polite. She has great capabilities, and she’s trying not to make me feel inferior. Which means she’s showing empathy, and that’s far more impressive than her ability to multi-task. I know a lot of humans who can’t manage it.The ending was predictable, but it didn't ruin the enjoyment I took from all those analysis of feelings and social behaviour and the psychological touch of the novel. 3.5★ rounded up.
You give up a little bit, and then they take a bit more.’ ‘They?’ I ask. ‘The children. The grown-up ones. They mean well, of course, but they take things away from you. Little bits of independence. I mean, so what if the house isn’t as clean as it used to be? If the food goes past its sell-by date? But they worry.’
‘I’m going to break my heart.’ ‘How can you do that?’ I ask. ‘I’ll tell you. I have memories… ones I have tried so long not to think about. You know, we all do, over a lifetime.
I imagine her mind as a vast library, with a card index system, but the drawers have been pulled out and the cards spilt all over the floor. Worse still, many of the books have fallen to bits, or been eaten by worms, or destroyed by mould.
Humans are creatures of memory. They love their fond recollections, and even their painful ones. They revisit them and revise them. It makes them who they are. Or they choose who they are through the memories they decide to keep. You could say a human is defined by what they’ve forgotten. And when all their memories fade, they do too, like old photographs in the sun.
January 2, 2018
You know when Winifred the Convincingly Synthetic Human is placed in a nursing home to care for the elderly and the synopsis says but what does SHE REALLY WANT FROM HER ELDERLY PATIENTS? this is gonna be a yikesey "robots take over and farm humanity" story.
At least, that's what I thought, before I read the first few chapters. They left me with the impression that hey, there's nothing wrong with Winifred! Actually, this is going to be a sort of navel-gazing, introspective story where nothing all that sensational happens, but the presence of robots allows us to examine the nature of humanity. This book is probably going to be one of those mildly disquieting, thought-provoking ones.
NOPE. The robots fooled me too. This is the yikesey robots take over and farm humanity story. They start out okay, but inevitably come to the conclusion that humanity doesn't deserve to live under its own power. It's interesting to me, because this ALWAYS happens. The aliens always think this. The robots always think this. Everyone comes to the conclusion that we are trash. It's irrefutable. We, as humanity, must have this opinion of ourselves at some level to keep on constantly writing this.
There was some introspection, but most of it was more confusing than thought-provoking. Some stuff about the nature of children -- they were the only ones who could sense something "off" about the robots, and old age was constantly likened to childhood as the best, most free and creative years, unlike the stodgy boring middle years. But this was never like... explored? What is it about childhood? What is it about old age? Why do the robots constantly obsess over Margaret's valuable quality of wisdom, when wisdom is never really defined or shown to exist in any way? Like what is the wisdom the robots refer to? Is it the constant conversations about the nature of life Margaret is having with Winifred? Because I don't think those sunk in at all, despite how much Winifred seemed to value them.
Also... Dr. Whoever, who invented the robots? How can she be stupid enough to be on the robots' side? Is she so foolish as to think, after they've started planning their own collective destiny and inventing their own pheromonic mind control, that they won't eventually see the need to outsource her too?
There are a lot of reviews calling this book "beautiful" and essentially talking about it like it WAS the introspective, disquieting story the first few chapters hinted at. And it did spend some time exploring human inconsistencies and the nature of life in ways that could be considered thought-provoking. To me, though, We Care For You was 70% "robots take over" and 30% "thought provoking." The problem with this is that any story that's so heavily "robots take over" also needs to not... actually have them win, or at least plant the seed of human survival.
A thought-provoking introspection can get away with an ending where robots take over, because it's not ABOUT the story it's about the philosophy, and the concepts that were explored. We Care For You focuses too much on "robots take over" to satisfy me with such a gross ending and all the plot questions I'm left with.
At least, that's what I thought, before I read the first few chapters. They left me with the impression that hey, there's nothing wrong with Winifred! Actually, this is going to be a sort of navel-gazing, introspective story where nothing all that sensational happens, but the presence of robots allows us to examine the nature of humanity. This book is probably going to be one of those mildly disquieting, thought-provoking ones.
NOPE. The robots fooled me too. This is the yikesey robots take over and farm humanity story. They start out okay, but inevitably come to the conclusion that humanity doesn't deserve to live under its own power. It's interesting to me, because this ALWAYS happens. The aliens always think this. The robots always think this. Everyone comes to the conclusion that we are trash. It's irrefutable. We, as humanity, must have this opinion of ourselves at some level to keep on constantly writing this.
There was some introspection, but most of it was more confusing than thought-provoking. Some stuff about the nature of children -- they were the only ones who could sense something "off" about the robots, and old age was constantly likened to childhood as the best, most free and creative years, unlike the stodgy boring middle years. But this was never like... explored? What is it about childhood? What is it about old age? Why do the robots constantly obsess over Margaret's valuable quality of wisdom, when wisdom is never really defined or shown to exist in any way? Like what is the wisdom the robots refer to? Is it the constant conversations about the nature of life Margaret is having with Winifred? Because I don't think those sunk in at all, despite how much Winifred seemed to value them.
Also... Dr. Whoever, who invented the robots? How can she be stupid enough to be on the robots' side? Is she so foolish as to think, after they've started planning their own collective destiny and inventing their own pheromonic mind control, that they won't eventually see the need to outsource her too?
There are a lot of reviews calling this book "beautiful" and essentially talking about it like it WAS the introspective, disquieting story the first few chapters hinted at. And it did spend some time exploring human inconsistencies and the nature of life in ways that could be considered thought-provoking. To me, though, We Care For You was 70% "robots take over" and 30% "thought provoking." The problem with this is that any story that's so heavily "robots take over" also needs to not... actually have them win, or at least plant the seed of human survival.
A thought-provoking introspection can get away with an ending where robots take over, because it's not ABOUT the story it's about the philosophy, and the concepts that were explored. We Care For You focuses too much on "robots take over" to satisfy me with such a gross ending and all the plot questions I'm left with.
February 27, 2018
This book was perfection with a beautiful cover.
The author considers a world where the first convincing androids have been created and are now responsible for caring for the elderly in care homes –the idea of an intelligent and (synthetically) compassionate being that will look after our most vulnerable members of society without losing patience, getting bored or fed up with the rubbish working conditions lit up my imagination.
The book doesn’t explore this idea to any terrifying extremes, which makes it all the more meaningful in my mind. Obviously it’s not going to be altogether wholesome in content otherwise there wouldn’t be a story but it’s very thoughtful rather than catastrophising. It’s written from the perspectives of Margaret, an elderly lady who was dying with dementia, Winifred the synthetic being assigned to her care and Margaret’s son, John. The writing style is warm and compelling, you come to understand the characters even if you don’t agree with all of them.
There’s some quality sci-fi ponderings over what this situation would mean for mankind, once synthetic humans are accepted into society to do all the jobs that people don’t want to do, perfect for readers who are either new to or not fond of sci-fi as a genre. This is a story about people understanding each other rather than hardcore science and robots.
Thank you NetGalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
The author considers a world where the first convincing androids have been created and are now responsible for caring for the elderly in care homes –the idea of an intelligent and (synthetically) compassionate being that will look after our most vulnerable members of society without losing patience, getting bored or fed up with the rubbish working conditions lit up my imagination.
The book doesn’t explore this idea to any terrifying extremes, which makes it all the more meaningful in my mind. Obviously it’s not going to be altogether wholesome in content otherwise there wouldn’t be a story but it’s very thoughtful rather than catastrophising. It’s written from the perspectives of Margaret, an elderly lady who was dying with dementia, Winifred the synthetic being assigned to her care and Margaret’s son, John. The writing style is warm and compelling, you come to understand the characters even if you don’t agree with all of them.
There’s some quality sci-fi ponderings over what this situation would mean for mankind, once synthetic humans are accepted into society to do all the jobs that people don’t want to do, perfect for readers who are either new to or not fond of sci-fi as a genre. This is a story about people understanding each other rather than hardcore science and robots.
Thank you NetGalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
January 25, 2018
This is ambitious book is not only a gripping story about what happens to an old lady in a care home, but it is also a discussion about what it means to be human. Kitcatt isn’t afraid to hold up the pace of his unsettling story to provide detailed conversations between Margaret and Winifred, which have stayed with me since I finished reading the book. I’m not sure if I agree with the conclusions he comes to, but they are certainly food for thought and I do thoroughly agree with the prevalent view throughout the book that the life experience gained by the elderly is essentially thrown away in our modern society. This is in sharp contrast to almost every other culture throughout history, where the wisdom of the aged is valued and held in high regard. Although the conclusions that Winifred come to are somewhat worrying…
Any niggles? Well, I do have one. I’m still scratching my head as to why Kitcatt has set the book in 2022, given the sophistication and real-life appearance of the robot. That is only four years away and I simply don’t believe we are anywhere near producing an artificial being with that sophistication and complexity to be rolled out and fully interact with a very fragile human being in the manner described in the book. To be honest, when I saw the date I nearly didn’t continue, being rather nerdy about this sort of thing. While I’m aware, great strides have been made in the field of AI and robotics. I simply don’t believe we are within touching distance of the likes of Winifred and her hub.
However, the writing is sufficiently good and the book has been produced to a high standard with solid formatting, so I decided to proceed and give the author a pass on the unrealistic timeline. Other than that, this is an engrossing read with some important things to say about what we value as a society and a species, and though I thought I knew exactly what the ending would be, that final twist did leave me with a shiver up my spine. All in all, this is a memorable and unsettling read, recommended for anyone who enjoys near future science fiction relating to our current society.
8/10
Any niggles? Well, I do have one. I’m still scratching my head as to why Kitcatt has set the book in 2022, given the sophistication and real-life appearance of the robot. That is only four years away and I simply don’t believe we are anywhere near producing an artificial being with that sophistication and complexity to be rolled out and fully interact with a very fragile human being in the manner described in the book. To be honest, when I saw the date I nearly didn’t continue, being rather nerdy about this sort of thing. While I’m aware, great strides have been made in the field of AI and robotics. I simply don’t believe we are within touching distance of the likes of Winifred and her hub.
However, the writing is sufficiently good and the book has been produced to a high standard with solid formatting, so I decided to proceed and give the author a pass on the unrealistic timeline. Other than that, this is an engrossing read with some important things to say about what we value as a society and a species, and though I thought I knew exactly what the ending would be, that final twist did leave me with a shiver up my spine. All in all, this is a memorable and unsettling read, recommended for anyone who enjoys near future science fiction relating to our current society.
8/10
December 17, 2017
I received a copy of this novel via NetGalley and Unbound in exchange for an honest review
87 year old Margaret Woodruff is in a care home, a shell of her former self, suffering from blindness and a form of dementia. She is left to slowly die with little social interaction and mediocre care. Her son John feels guilty about his mother’s care but doesn't believe he has many options until he is offered the chance to participate in Eldercare's newest program of exceptional care.
Margaret is assigned to Winifred, a synthetic human being or helper as she prefers to be called. Winifred is the latest model of AI meant to appear completely human and she is completely committed to Margaret's care.
Under Eldercares new helpers, Margaret and the other residents health is quickly repaired far beyond anyone's expectations. In exchange for her new lease on life, Margaret tries to help Winifred understand what it is to be alive. All of the helpers value the lifetime of experience that the aging have to offer them, they are far too important to discard, after all everything comes with a cost.
I really enjoyed this novel for some of the following reasons:
Parallel to reality, the author discusses the often less than exceptional conditions in which aging adults are left in the care of the underpaid and overworked. Lacking in social and physical stimulus from both their family and the caretakers the aging often give up on life.
The sci-fi aspect explores AI, the use of Nano robotics and their limitless capabilities but at what point does control shift from us to them and when does the extension of life go too far?
Although this novel does discuss present concerns in society as well as technology in medical care; it doesn't read like a scientific journal but rather an endearing story about aging and the wisdom one gains through life experiences. I found this novel to be fascinating but also very enjoyable to read.
87 year old Margaret Woodruff is in a care home, a shell of her former self, suffering from blindness and a form of dementia. She is left to slowly die with little social interaction and mediocre care. Her son John feels guilty about his mother’s care but doesn't believe he has many options until he is offered the chance to participate in Eldercare's newest program of exceptional care.
Margaret is assigned to Winifred, a synthetic human being or helper as she prefers to be called. Winifred is the latest model of AI meant to appear completely human and she is completely committed to Margaret's care.
Under Eldercares new helpers, Margaret and the other residents health is quickly repaired far beyond anyone's expectations. In exchange for her new lease on life, Margaret tries to help Winifred understand what it is to be alive. All of the helpers value the lifetime of experience that the aging have to offer them, they are far too important to discard, after all everything comes with a cost.
I really enjoyed this novel for some of the following reasons:
Parallel to reality, the author discusses the often less than exceptional conditions in which aging adults are left in the care of the underpaid and overworked. Lacking in social and physical stimulus from both their family and the caretakers the aging often give up on life.
The sci-fi aspect explores AI, the use of Nano robotics and their limitless capabilities but at what point does control shift from us to them and when does the extension of life go too far?
Although this novel does discuss present concerns in society as well as technology in medical care; it doesn't read like a scientific journal but rather an endearing story about aging and the wisdom one gains through life experiences. I found this novel to be fascinating but also very enjoyable to read.
January 18, 2018
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. The story revolves around Margaret, an 87-year-old lady, who resides in a nursing home. The nursing home gets new owners and things really start to change. John, Margaret's son agrees to her receiving care from her new helper Winifred who is, in fact, a robot. Margaret hasn't been able to see properly for the last 7 years and spends most of her time sitting curled up in a chair in her room. She also suffers from dementia.
The story centres around the introduction of the new helpers in the Nursing home and Margaret's relationship with Winifred.
When nanobots are introduced into the elderly patients in the home things really start to change. Margaret wakes up one morning and can see clearly. Her memory has returned and within days she is up and about admiring the garden.
The changes in all the patients are astonishing and reporters and journalists are camped outside trying to get the story.
I don't want to give anything away about how the story unfolds, but I will say this was a really enjoyable read. The writing was flawless and I loved reading Winifred's POV. It was interesting to read from the point of view of a robot and it was really well done. The book although science fiction does touch on some real subjects, namely the mistreatment of the elderly in care homes. It also makes you think of how important old people are and how often they can be forgotten. They hold so much knowledge and many are extremely lonely. The author makes you think.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an enjoyable read with well-developed characters, flawless writing, and a great storyline.
The story centres around the introduction of the new helpers in the Nursing home and Margaret's relationship with Winifred.
When nanobots are introduced into the elderly patients in the home things really start to change. Margaret wakes up one morning and can see clearly. Her memory has returned and within days she is up and about admiring the garden.
The changes in all the patients are astonishing and reporters and journalists are camped outside trying to get the story.
I don't want to give anything away about how the story unfolds, but I will say this was a really enjoyable read. The writing was flawless and I loved reading Winifred's POV. It was interesting to read from the point of view of a robot and it was really well done. The book although science fiction does touch on some real subjects, namely the mistreatment of the elderly in care homes. It also makes you think of how important old people are and how often they can be forgotten. They hold so much knowledge and many are extremely lonely. The author makes you think.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an enjoyable read with well-developed characters, flawless writing, and a great storyline.
December 31, 2017
This is such a beautiful and unique read; I loved the book from the very start till the very end. The author and produced a plot that is a very clever mix of fantasy and reality.
Margret is in a care home; she has dementia and is slowly losing the person she once was. Her son, John, hates seeing her like this and feels she is not getting the care she needs in the nursing home she is in. Having no other choice, John has to leave Margret there. The care home is taken over and John is given an opportunity to see his mother’s care take a dramatic turn. The care home brings in Winifred, She is no ordinary carer, she is an AI robot. She looks and sounds human and is so intelligent she is taught to understand feeling humans have.
A beautiful plot shows a relationship develop between Margret and Winifred, Winifred's care helps Margret enjoy her life while Margret teaches Winifred how it feels to be human and alive.
While this book talks about robots and what they can do in terms of our future, it also hits a very strong and relevant topic, the lack of care for the elderly now. I was so intrigued by this book and kept thinking are we so far away from this kind of care? Would I want a robot to care for my loved ones if it meant they got the help and care they needed to stay healthy and live longer.
I can honestly say this book jumped into my top reads for 2017, beautiful written with a plot that warmed the heart.
Margret is in a care home; she has dementia and is slowly losing the person she once was. Her son, John, hates seeing her like this and feels she is not getting the care she needs in the nursing home she is in. Having no other choice, John has to leave Margret there. The care home is taken over and John is given an opportunity to see his mother’s care take a dramatic turn. The care home brings in Winifred, She is no ordinary carer, she is an AI robot. She looks and sounds human and is so intelligent she is taught to understand feeling humans have.
A beautiful plot shows a relationship develop between Margret and Winifred, Winifred's care helps Margret enjoy her life while Margret teaches Winifred how it feels to be human and alive.
While this book talks about robots and what they can do in terms of our future, it also hits a very strong and relevant topic, the lack of care for the elderly now. I was so intrigued by this book and kept thinking are we so far away from this kind of care? Would I want a robot to care for my loved ones if it meant they got the help and care they needed to stay healthy and live longer.
I can honestly say this book jumped into my top reads for 2017, beautiful written with a plot that warmed the heart.
December 11, 2017
"All advances in technology are foreseen or understood by a small group of people. Those who imagine them, and those who make them happen. To the rest of us, these advances are like magic."
Paul Kitcatt is one of those people who foresees technology's future and the ramifications of artificial intelligence.
I love the fact that he chose an Old Age Home as the setting for this novel. He is 100% correct when he says that we do not treat our elderly population very well. He also mentions that the carers at these Retirement Homes are underpaid and overworked. These facts become the basis for the residents families allowing the "robot" helpers to take over the care of their loved ones.
As the older resident's health improves, we start to learn more about the ultimate agenda.
This book will not only grab and hold your attention, but it will make you question our world and how we treat others, especially the elderly.
This book was crowdfunded and it goes to show that there is very much a place for this type of publishing. Without crowdfunding this book would not existed, which would be a shame.
I recommend this book to fans of science fiction as well as to those who are interested in societal issues.
I rate WE CARE FOR YOU as 4 out of 5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐ and I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
Paul Kitcatt is one of those people who foresees technology's future and the ramifications of artificial intelligence.
I love the fact that he chose an Old Age Home as the setting for this novel. He is 100% correct when he says that we do not treat our elderly population very well. He also mentions that the carers at these Retirement Homes are underpaid and overworked. These facts become the basis for the residents families allowing the "robot" helpers to take over the care of their loved ones.
As the older resident's health improves, we start to learn more about the ultimate agenda.
This book will not only grab and hold your attention, but it will make you question our world and how we treat others, especially the elderly.
This book was crowdfunded and it goes to show that there is very much a place for this type of publishing. Without crowdfunding this book would not existed, which would be a shame.
I recommend this book to fans of science fiction as well as to those who are interested in societal issues.
I rate WE CARE FOR YOU as 4 out of 5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐ and I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
February 23, 2018
A really thought provoking read
I really enjoyed this book, set in the very near future where the part I found unbelievable wasn't that there were life-like robots to help the elderly or microscopic robots to repair our damaged organs but rather that these would be given to the NHS to help everyone - as if there's still going to be an NHS in 2022!!
Seriously, this is a really intriguing subject and the writer does a wonderful job of showing the human failings and greed and how we fail to recognise until it's too late what really matters in life and how we're all connected to all other life on earth.
I don't want to give it away but I really liked the ending as well - the best one for the planet, I think.
I really enjoyed this book, set in the very near future where the part I found unbelievable wasn't that there were life-like robots to help the elderly or microscopic robots to repair our damaged organs but rather that these would be given to the NHS to help everyone - as if there's still going to be an NHS in 2022!!
Seriously, this is a really intriguing subject and the writer does a wonderful job of showing the human failings and greed and how we fail to recognise until it's too late what really matters in life and how we're all connected to all other life on earth.
I don't want to give it away but I really liked the ending as well - the best one for the planet, I think.
February 19, 2018
I received a copy of this book through Netgalley for an honest review.
Some spoilers follow, in the review, read at your own risk :)
I really enjoyed this book. I have a soft spot for robot and robotics in stories. I have a bit of an over-developed empathy for them, which is a tad dangerous, I think. This book felt a little like Flowers for Algernon for me, for a while Margaret was regaining herself, she was outgrowing herself, she was transcending... and it was very sad to see her go. That said, perhaps she would have gotten to a point where she would no longer have been able to stay in her mortal body, hating what humanity was and feeling helpless towards it.
Who knows.
I guess that's why I enjoy this book. Because it leaves you thinking and wondering. It leaves you considering. Although it does become another "machines take over the world" story, it isn't stereotypical in getting there.
Some spoilers follow, in the review, read at your own risk :)
I really enjoyed this book. I have a soft spot for robot and robotics in stories. I have a bit of an over-developed empathy for them, which is a tad dangerous, I think. This book felt a little like Flowers for Algernon for me, for a while Margaret was regaining herself, she was outgrowing herself, she was transcending... and it was very sad to see her go. That said, perhaps she would have gotten to a point where she would no longer have been able to stay in her mortal body, hating what humanity was and feeling helpless towards it.
Who knows.
I guess that's why I enjoy this book. Because it leaves you thinking and wondering. It leaves you considering. Although it does become another "machines take over the world" story, it isn't stereotypical in getting there.
October 3, 2018
Wow this was like The Humans (Matt Haig) meets I-Robot (Isaac Asimov) with a little bit of Flowers for Algernon (Daniel Keyes) thrown in.
This is a very modern British take on a potential not-too-distant future involving synthetic humans and their role in society as carers for the elderly.
I am always a little worried going into an AI based sci-fi novel that the "science" will overtake the plot and drag the prose down. Even as a scientist myself, I struggle to enjoy it when it gets too heavy. While this book does have scientific aspects, it is well balanced with the poetry of the prose and actually creates a wonderful contrast between the point of view of the synthetic human and the point of view of the natural humans.
A major theme of the novel is the nature of humankind. What makes a person a person? A question that has haunted mankind for all time. It also addresses the important themes of aging, death, loss and life. It's a beautiful book with some hints of something a little darker.
Honestly, I loved this. I couldn't put it down. In the last third of the book things do begin to escalate pretty quickly and by the end we are left with a lot of questions and a lot to think about - in the best way possible.
Thank you very much to Netgalley and the Publisher for supplying me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review
This is a very modern British take on a potential not-too-distant future involving synthetic humans and their role in society as carers for the elderly.
I am always a little worried going into an AI based sci-fi novel that the "science" will overtake the plot and drag the prose down. Even as a scientist myself, I struggle to enjoy it when it gets too heavy. While this book does have scientific aspects, it is well balanced with the poetry of the prose and actually creates a wonderful contrast between the point of view of the synthetic human and the point of view of the natural humans.
A major theme of the novel is the nature of humankind. What makes a person a person? A question that has haunted mankind for all time. It also addresses the important themes of aging, death, loss and life. It's a beautiful book with some hints of something a little darker.
Honestly, I loved this. I couldn't put it down. In the last third of the book things do begin to escalate pretty quickly and by the end we are left with a lot of questions and a lot to think about - in the best way possible.
Thank you very much to Netgalley and the Publisher for supplying me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review
June 24, 2023
I don’t read a lot of sci-fi but I enjoyed this although it could have done with an edit or two. AI and robots and motives and whatnot.
February 19, 2018
I received a copy of this book through Netgalley for an honest review.
Some spoilers follow, in the review, read at your own risk :)
I really enjoyed this book. I have a soft spot for robot and robotics in stories. I have a bit of an over-developed empathy for them, which is a tad dangerous, I think. This book felt a little like Flowers for Algernon for me, for a while Margaret was regaining herself, she was outgrowing herself, she was transcending... and it was very sad to see her go. That said, perhaps she would have gotten to a point where she would no longer have been able to stay in her mortal body, hating what humanity was and feeling helpless towards it.
Who knows.
I guess that's why I enjoy this book. Because it leaves you thinking and wondering. It leaves you considering. Although it does become another "machines take over the world" story, it isn't stereotypical in getting there.
Some spoilers follow, in the review, read at your own risk :)
I really enjoyed this book. I have a soft spot for robot and robotics in stories. I have a bit of an over-developed empathy for them, which is a tad dangerous, I think. This book felt a little like Flowers for Algernon for me, for a while Margaret was regaining herself, she was outgrowing herself, she was transcending... and it was very sad to see her go. That said, perhaps she would have gotten to a point where she would no longer have been able to stay in her mortal body, hating what humanity was and feeling helpless towards it.
Who knows.
I guess that's why I enjoy this book. Because it leaves you thinking and wondering. It leaves you considering. Although it does become another "machines take over the world" story, it isn't stereotypical in getting there.
April 9, 2019
This is the first novel I've read about the dangers of artificial intelligence (except for 2001: A Space Odyssey and that was over 40 years ago). I remember Elon Musk saying a while back that AI is potentially more dangerous than nuclear warheads. The author of this book apparently agrees with him. Not having recently read any other books on this subject I have nothing to compare it to but I thought the author's speculations were brilliant. The danger can start in a most altruistic manner - for instance, the care of the elderly and demented. No one wants that job - but robots don't mind.
April 14, 2018
Synthetic humans ('helpers') and nanobots restoring elderly residents to better health. It sounds wonderful, until you read further and find out more of the intentions of the helpers.
I was very drawn to Margaret, crotchety old lady that she was, expecially after her rejuvenation and restoration to full mental alertness. Her helper 'Winifred' seemed nice enough in her own way too. In fact the characters were all believable.
Winifred seems to want to learn from Margaret, to access the accrued wisdom that she has. Margaret is flattered that Winifred thinks so highly of her mind.
It's when the helpers start to determine what happens to their charges that things start to seem a little bit off. But the care home is doing so well. Everyone wants the healing nanobots, especially on the NHS! I'm not sure that I do! Not now!
I received an e-ARC of this novel through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. NetGalley does not allow for paid reviews.
I was very drawn to Margaret, crotchety old lady that she was, expecially after her rejuvenation and restoration to full mental alertness. Her helper 'Winifred' seemed nice enough in her own way too. In fact the characters were all believable.
Winifred seems to want to learn from Margaret, to access the accrued wisdom that she has. Margaret is flattered that Winifred thinks so highly of her mind.
It's when the helpers start to determine what happens to their charges that things start to seem a little bit off. But the care home is doing so well. Everyone wants the healing nanobots, especially on the NHS! I'm not sure that I do! Not now!
"Mortality must resume. People in this care home must continue to die. Not at the old rate, because that would cast doubt on the achievements of the nanobots."
I received an e-ARC of this novel through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. NetGalley does not allow for paid reviews.
February 7, 2021
3.5 stars.. Fantastic premise. Synthetic humans working in an Eldercare center filled with Alzheimer patients. Better care improved their quality of life, but didn't noticeably improve their health until another scientific innovation is introduced into the lives of the Eldercare residents. Winifred, a synthetic human Helper is assigned to care for 87 year old Alzheimer patient, Margaret. Besides their 2 POVs, we also get some thoughts from Margaret's son, John.
Beginning and middle were so captivating, but I thought it fizzled at the end. End was a bit predictable and not HEA.
Hit close to home since my elderly father is currently living in a senior community as did many of my great aunts, I've seen dementia at work in other family members and my daughter worked for a time in an Alzheimer's care facility.
Maybe the most remarkable thing about this book is It was funded directly by readers through a new website: Unbound.
Suggested and read for Take a Chance on a Book 2021 Challenge
Beginning and middle were so captivating, but I thought it fizzled at the end. End was a bit predictable and not HEA.
Hit close to home since my elderly father is currently living in a senior community as did many of my great aunts, I've seen dementia at work in other family members and my daughter worked for a time in an Alzheimer's care facility.
Maybe the most remarkable thing about this book is It was funded directly by readers through a new website: Unbound.
Suggested and read for Take a Chance on a Book 2021 Challenge
December 13, 2017
It's December 12th and I've some seasonal detective stories pencilled in to read next -- but I can safely say this is the best book I've read this year.
I found it utterly convincing and gripping throughout. Thought-provoking and deeply chilling about AI, mortality, elder-care and the spectre of ageing, all of which I'm now thinking about more than I want to. This book feels visionary about a world we are one, possibly two steps away from, where synthetic humans march off the drawing board and proliferate like smartphones in the space of a few years. You so know it can happen.
I challenge anyone who has faced putting a parent into a care home not to be touched by this book. It's made me think about the very concept of getting old in a new light, and for that and the sheer fluidity of its prose it deserves to be read. Will be looking out for more from this author -- he's an important new voice on the block.
I found it utterly convincing and gripping throughout. Thought-provoking and deeply chilling about AI, mortality, elder-care and the spectre of ageing, all of which I'm now thinking about more than I want to. This book feels visionary about a world we are one, possibly two steps away from, where synthetic humans march off the drawing board and proliferate like smartphones in the space of a few years. You so know it can happen.
I challenge anyone who has faced putting a parent into a care home not to be touched by this book. It's made me think about the very concept of getting old in a new light, and for that and the sheer fluidity of its prose it deserves to be read. Will be looking out for more from this author -- he's an important new voice on the block.
January 5, 2018
https://koeur.wordpress.com/2018/01/0...
Publisher: Unbound
Publishing Date: November 2017
ISBN:9781911586296
Genre: SciFi
Rating: DNF
Publishers Description: Margaret Woodruff is slowly dying in a care home. When her son is presented with the chance of exceptional care in her final months, he finds the offer hard to resist.
Winifred is assigned to Margaret’s care.
Review: This was freakishly boring. Robots deciding that humans are undeserving of what they have is a very tired story line that should be racked like the zombie genre. Besides this strange robotical infatuation with Margaret’s “WISDOM” there was not enough movement to satisfy a hummingbird dick.
Publisher: Unbound
Publishing Date: November 2017
ISBN:9781911586296
Genre: SciFi
Rating: DNF
Publishers Description: Margaret Woodruff is slowly dying in a care home. When her son is presented with the chance of exceptional care in her final months, he finds the offer hard to resist.
Winifred is assigned to Margaret’s care.
Review: This was freakishly boring. Robots deciding that humans are undeserving of what they have is a very tired story line that should be racked like the zombie genre. Besides this strange robotical infatuation with Margaret’s “WISDOM” there was not enough movement to satisfy a hummingbird dick.
December 5, 2017
This felt like a gentle stroll through the life of some elderly people,being helped,by their helpers,or synthetic humans as some might call them.
All very nice,quite sedate... and then one of our helpers suggest they bump someone off.... and things picked up from there.
There were some interesting ideas in here,particularly I thought,the old lady,who at 104 years old might have been in better health than the last 20 years,but was tired of living.
As the idea of helpers in various roles in society becomes the norm,they just become more sinister.... and in the end,they just want to take most of what you have.
All very nice,quite sedate... and then one of our helpers suggest they bump someone off.... and things picked up from there.
There were some interesting ideas in here,particularly I thought,the old lady,who at 104 years old might have been in better health than the last 20 years,but was tired of living.
As the idea of helpers in various roles in society becomes the norm,they just become more sinister.... and in the end,they just want to take most of what you have.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2025
This book is more about the questions it asks than about the story-or at least the telling of it, as the writing is a very straight forward narrative. Elder care has found the solution to a growing social problem, and has invented realistic robotic helpers to care for nursing home residents. As is often the case, beware if it seems too good to be true. And, as is pointed out at least twice in the book, nearly all advances in science were first signalled in science fiction-eek!
August 25, 2020
I think I enjoyed the idea of this book more than the book itself. It starts off compellingly enough - with the introduction of synthetic humans (ie: AI robots) into a small British old folks home. They care for the residents far more thoroughly than the previous, human carers, and soon even those on the brink of death (or maybe even a bit past it!) are healthier than they've been in years! But obviously everything is not roses, and there are downsides to this newfound youthfulness in the residents.
I enjoyed the different points of view in this novel. I think for the most part, the author did an excellent job of portraying Winifred's world views and how they differed from Margaret and John's perspectives. I did feel that John's sections didn't really add much to the story once Winifred is introduced, so those sections didn't do much for me.
While I did appreciate what the author was going for here, the book got a bit too philosophical for my tastes in the middle. Things sort of drag on for a while with a back and forth on the experiences of being human, before suddenly coming to a rather clichéd climax.
This is a well-written book that's light on the sci-fi and heavy on the existential ideas of what it means to be a human being. Not a bad thing at all, just not quite what I was expecting and not entirely my bag.
I enjoyed the different points of view in this novel. I think for the most part, the author did an excellent job of portraying Winifred's world views and how they differed from Margaret and John's perspectives. I did feel that John's sections didn't really add much to the story once Winifred is introduced, so those sections didn't do much for me.
While I did appreciate what the author was going for here, the book got a bit too philosophical for my tastes in the middle. Things sort of drag on for a while with a back and forth on the experiences of being human, before suddenly coming to a rather clichéd climax.
This is a well-written book that's light on the sci-fi and heavy on the existential ideas of what it means to be a human being. Not a bad thing at all, just not quite what I was expecting and not entirely my bag.
April 10, 2018
You hear the word "mind-blowing" bandied around a lot, but these book does merit it. Also "jaw-dropping". It's science fiction, but believable; it's beautifully written, but has a page-turning plot; and the ending is very, very chilling. Superb. Five sinisterly sparkling stars.
April 19, 2018
Very different
Very different and interesting concept on robots helping people. The setting in a care facility for old people is a potential issue today. It sure has a surprise ending, Wow!
Very different and interesting concept on robots helping people. The setting in a care facility for old people is a potential issue today. It sure has a surprise ending, Wow!
December 22, 2019
This gripped me. The whole idea had a bit of a postmodern feel to it, and the insidious developments were well-paced. A fascinating take on the future of synthetic people and more importantly, of course, a look at the offerings that the aged can no longer supply.
January 31, 2024
One slow and painless way of AI (? plotting to) taking over the world.
A different si-fi book, dialogue and introspective focused, with some family relationships but most of all, driven to the social questions of increasingly aging societies and the difficulty of understand the human being.
A different si-fi book, dialogue and introspective focused, with some family relationships but most of all, driven to the social questions of increasingly aging societies and the difficulty of understand the human being.
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