Book Review: The Light at the Bottom of the World by London Shah

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live underwater and how humanity would adapt to such a drastic change in environment? London Shah explores this possibility in her young adult debut novel, The Light at the Bottom of the World. Get ready to journey to the dark abyss where humanity is awash in a conspiracy of secrets and lies that gives rise to fear, and threatens to drown the voices of those who dare to hope.

In 2099, Earth is completely submerged in water due to an asteroid impact. A small population of humans survived and live in the ruins of cities around the world. Leyla McQueen is a sixteen-year-old submersible racer living in London. She is desperate to clear her father’s name of a crime he did not commit. When all of Leyla’s attempts to help him are blocked, she sets out to free him on her own. Armed with determination, bravery, and the aid of an unexpected companion, Leyla will venture outside of London for the very first time to rescue her beloved father and in the process, discover a truth that will forever alter humanity.

I was completely entranced by the underwater setting in The Light at the Bottom of the World. Shah’s stunning descriptions of the dark abyss, ruins, and technology lend itself to a richly imaginative world. It has an eerie atmosphere that combines intrigue, tension, and nostalgia. You can’t help but be pulled into this remarkably unique world.

A brilliant setting requires an equally brilliant lead character, and Shah delivers with Leyla McQueen. She is a proud British-Muslim that practices her faith and honors her Afghan heritage. Shah includes beautiful, simple moments that acknowledge Leyla’s identities in an organic way. Leyla is strong and compassionate, cautious but brave, resolute in the face of adversity. Her antagonistic dynamic with reluctant companion Ari during their perilous excursion through the infinite water is the perfect set-up for a slow-burn romance. Like Leyla, Ari has a deep love of family that drives his actions. He’s mysterious and intense, but also fiercely protective of Leyla.

Shah expertly intertwines thought-provoking themes into the story as a natural extension of the plot. She examines how fear, nostalgia, survival, and hope can be used as tools to control humanity. Of how those in power, seek to manipulate truth for their own advantage. Ultimately, The Light at the Bottom of the World conveys a message of hope to its readers. Hope that humanity can survive against all odds if they are open to change. Hope that they can rebuild their world with the idea of peaceful coexistence. And most importantly, to keep moving forward towards a brighter future.

Final thoughts: The Light at the Bottom of the World is science-fiction at its best—a strikingly crafted world, a tenacious heroine in Leyla McQueen, and an intensely engrossing story that culminates in an ending that will leave you speechless.

The Light at the Bottom of the World will be available for purchase on October 29th with a sequel forthcoming in 2020.

Want to know more about London Shah and her debut? Read my interview with her right here.

Thank you to Disney Book Group for sending us an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!