The Memory Project by Andrew C. Youngson
Billington Publishing, 2020, 270 pages Available on www.amazon.com next month
It is always an authentic thrill to see a new literary genre being launched. Edgar Allen Poe invented detective stories: Jules Verne invented science fiction, and Lady Murasaki invented the novel. Andrew Youngson has added to the world’s unique literary history by launching a brand new sub-genre called “Thai SciFi”!
All novels are autobiographical. Andrew Youngson again proves this adage to be true. The author makes an impressive (the British would say “not bad” in a flat tone of voice) debut in his inaugural novel. The protagonist grabs the reader by the collar and drags them through the tale of horror, mystery and metaphysical surreality in fine style along with heavy doses of Thai culture. The action builds slowly as the reader sinks into the saga, like walking on a Bangkok pavement made of concrete mixed with seawater. It slowly crumbles beneath your feet as you get a queasy sinking feeling that will not end well. The final verdict? Master of the new genre. Cult following. Netflix movie.
