Book Review: Our Simulated Selves by Nikki Null, read as part of SPSFC-5


4.5/5 stars. The best science fiction often addresses mental, emotional, social, societal, and political issues in subtle ways. This novel examines the mental and social concerns related to personal gender dysphoria in very direct, and often disturbing, ways. This novel is a thorough exploration of the potentiality of brain scanning technology, and asks the question, “can we use that technology to address mental or emotional health for people suffering with a variety of personal issues?”


This story gave me a great deal of personal insight into the mind of a sexually questioning person, addressing the physical and mental toll that being born in the wrong body can have on that individual. I have personally never experienced these emotions, as I am a cisgender male, but the author appears to share much of her own experiences with the telling of this story. I appreciate the strength of character that her experiences, and the writing of this story, required.


Our Simulated Selves is a well-written work of hard sci-fi/cyberpunk storytelling. There are wonderfully depicted characters and amazing world-building. This tale is heartbreaking at times but overall has important themes and hopeful promise for a more understanding culture of the future. Personally, I had some concerns with the story structure and a few decisions of the main character, but nothing so significant to mention in this review and nothing to prevent me from highly recommending it, especially for those who appreciate the power of science fiction to address current societal concerns and offer positive ways forward.

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