Book Review: Nano

Another in a series of medical fiction by Robin Cook, Nano is a reminder to all readers about why Cook’s writing is so engaging. Despite the longish read, the book was quite engaging. It reminded me of why I had initially started reading his books. Besides being gripping mysteries, his books have always got me to read more. Not being from a medical background, I have to often read up on the breakthroughs in medical research to understand what Cook is writing about. I admire his ability to weave narratives around key debates in the practice and research of medicine. On reflection, I sometimes feel my interest in research can be attributed to my early exposure to medical research in Cook’s writings.

Nano is about the fast paces growth in the industry of nano technology and the use of microbivores with the capacity to bring about change in the practice of preventive and curative medicine. The whole idea is quite fascinating. In Nano, Cook has been able to bring in debates about politics, finance in research and interpersonal relationships along with the expected questions on ethical research. Besides medical fiction, it was quite amazing to read about the differences of functioning  in democratic and communist countries. Of course, this book is no authority on international relations, nor does it claim to be so. But how state control impacts business is also touched upon. Another interesting take in Nano is the focus on mental states of the various characters. How personal histories and experiences impact personalities, habits and beliefs and sometimes lead to becoming weaknesses. 

Nano is a bit different from many of the other books by Cook that I have read. His writing has become more contemporary (or the editor has changed). There is more open-endedness and grey shades in the book. At one place I felt that this was leading to a bit of inconsistency. But I don’t remember any of his other books ending with so many loose ends and unanswered questions. A  Nano II will hold tremendous potential.