On Jericho Flats
By Mark Duff (BaSci'95)
(Mark Duff, 154 pages; 2021
Nature versus Machine. Set in the near future where a powerful quantum AI computer offers people an illusion of reality in a world suffering from the excesses of Humanity's wants and desires. Ten-year-old Jake is faced with choosing the natural world or a mirage presented by the Machine. He doesn't yet know it, but the boy is at the crossroads where his choice affects the outcome of the world.
On Jericho Flats is a synthesis of science fiction and nature story solidly grounded in quantum physics, evolutionary biology, and philosophy. A memorable camping trip as seen and experienced by Jake. The story unfolds in the Colorado Rockies with the wonders of nature that only a child can discover. This is coupled with an AI that has evolved to prey on humans. The story pushes the boundaries of reality, belief, and what it means to be human.