Book Review: Hench by Natalie Zina Walschots
Sometimes, a book comes along that reels you in with a premise so fresh that you can’t help but glance at the cover and think, “Yes, that’s exactly what I need right now.” Hench: A Sci-Fi Novel of Heroism and Villainy in the Age of Social Media and Data Science by Natalie Zina Walschots was that book for me. The juxtaposition of data science against the backdrop of superhero culture felt like an instant magnet, and I was curious to see how Walschots would unravel this modern tale of power—and powerless.
At its core, Hench follows Anna Tromedlov, an underappreciated temp who finds herself working for the worst of the worst: supervillains. The story adeptly flips the script on traditional superhero narratives, offering a raw exploration of the often-overlooked aspects of heroism and villainy. As Anna navigates her world of spreadsheets and unreliable super beings, she becomes more than just an office cog; she transforms into a data-driven force for change. Her journey, from recovering from a violent encounter with a ‘hero’ to leveraging data against societal injustice, showcases how the line between good and evil can be twisted by perception and marketing.
Walschots’ writing style is sharp and infused with wit. The humor is both dark and relatable, allowing readers to connect deeply with Anna’s cynical yet fiercely intelligent character. For example, her dry one-liners during grim situations had me chuckling out loud, which beautifully offsets the heavier themes of marginalization and corporate greed. The pacing is brisk, pulling you along as Anna’s life spirals from mundane to extraordinary, even if the narrative occasionally ventures off into the action-packed territories typical of superhero tales.
One of the most striking aspects of Hench is how it portrays the often-blurred lines of morality. Anna’s disdain for the glorified heroes reveals an unsettling truth about society’s idolization of power without accountability. “The line between good and evil is mostly marketing,” she reflects, a quote that resonates far beyond the pages of the book and echoes our current cultural climate. It’s this blend of humor and profound insight that kept me engaged, making the reading experience not just entertaining but intellectually stimulating.
As I turned the pages, I couldn’t help but think about who would appreciate this book. Fans of anti-hero narratives, those interested in the intersection of technology and morality, or anyone who has felt like an underdog in a corporate structure will find a kindred spirit in Anna. Moreover, Walschots doesn’t shy away from exploring contemporary themes like the gig economy and toxic masculinity, making it a significant and relevant read for today.
Ultimately, Hench was more than just a fun romp through a superhero-villain landscape; it challenged me to rethink narratives we often take for granted. This book will stay with me long after turning the last page, a testament to its engaging storytelling and character depth. So, if you’re looking for a read that offers humor, insight, and a unique twist on the superhero genre, look no further—Hench might just be the adventure you didn’t know you needed.