Book Review: The Kaiju Preservation Society by John Scalzi
When I first laid eyes on The Kaiju Preservation Society, I had a mix of curiosity and excitement. The title promised a zany adventure filled with colossal creatures, and knowing Scalzi’s penchant for humor, I was ready for a wild ride. As a long-time fan of his work, I anticipated a delightful blend of wit, action, and the hint of social commentary that seems to color much of his writing.
At its core, The Kaiju Preservation Society isn’t just about giant monsters rampaging through cities—though there’s certainly plenty of that to satisfy any genre aficionado. Our protagonist, Jamie, finds themselves navigating the bizarre world of kaiju while addressing the havoc and hilarity that come with guiding a billionaire on a wild adventure. One standout moment captures this perfectly: the exchange between Satie and Mr. Sanders about the costs of compromising safety in exchange for wealth. It’s sharp, funny dialogue that sets the tone for Scalzi’s light-hearted yet incisive style.
The plot revolves around Jamie’s journey from a food-delivery driver juggling the challenges of a post-COVID world to an integral player in the Kaiju Preservation Society. What makes Scalzi’s storytelling truly shine is its pacing. Each chapter is an engaging sprint through absurd situations that left me chuckling more often than not. The humor is reminiscent of Redshirts, leaning heavily into self-awareness while not taking itself too seriously, which I found refreshing.
Now, let’s talk about the characters. While Scalzi’s knack for crafting a witty narrative often outweighs character depth, I felt a sense of connection to Jamie, our neutral protagonist, even if their identity was frustratingly absent of gender. This creative choice seemed a bit forced at times, leading to a character that lacked the dimensions I often crave. They operated more as a vessel for humor and action rather than a fully-rounded individual. Yet, this didn’t hinder my enjoyment—there’s a certain charm in Scalzi’s approach to character archetypes; everyone is quick-witted and clever, much like him.
Throughout the book, Scalzi tackles the modern world’s challenges, weaving in references to COVID-19 in a manner that’s not overbearing yet relatable. The humor that arises from absurd scenarios—like “Murder Stoner Syndrome”—is brilliant and showcases his unique approach to sci-fi. I appreciated how he created a utopian society where diverse identities coexist without drama, echoing the optimistic tones of Star Trek. It represents a kind of escapism I yearn for in fiction.
In conclusion, I’d recommend The Kaiju Preservation Society to anyone seeking a light, thought-provoking read filled with laughs, clever sci-fi references, and, of course, giant monsters. While it may not deliver nuanced character arcs or complex plots, it certainly provides a riotous good time that captures some of the best elements of speculative fiction. Whether you’re a longtime Scalzi devotee or a newcomer eager for some fun, this book is undoubtedly worth your time—just buckle up and enjoy the chaotic journey!
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