The Dream Hotel by Laila Lalami

In the recap section, the H.B.B.C. member who selected the book has an opportunity to sum up the club’s reading and discussion experience in whatever way feels appropriate to them. These aren’t necessarily reviews and we encourage members to refrain from posting anything that could be considered a spoiler. (Also, the views expressed are those of the individual member and don’t necessarily reflect the opinions of others in the club, etc.)

SO. Dystopian books are my favorite. Well…maybe second favorite, right behind Agatha Christie mysteries (because let’s be honest, she’s the best). The Dream Hotel is peak dystopia. We're talking full-on Black Mirror energy…technology is everywhere it absolutely should not be, and you’ll love/hate every second of it. And don’t worry, every other word is not AI if you are over that horror movie/book trope (like me) you’re safe with this one.

In this world, your entire life hinges on your risk assessment score. Want a loan for a house? They’re not checking your credit…they’re checking how risky you are. The super frustrating/annoying part is that this is influenced by data you can’t even really control. Like your DREAMS. Hence the title of the book. And let’s be real – I have some weird dreams that I would not like to be forever saved in some sort of fake technology cloud. (like going off to sea to follow the New York Giants for a full season – my loan officer could be a Patriots fan! Better keep that off the record)

 I won’t spoil anything, but if you're into tech taking over everything dystopias, The Dream Hotel should definitely be on your list. (Go Giants)

 

Live, laugh, and try not to dream of murder (they’re watching),  - - M.B.