About:
The Delivery by Gregg Hurwitz is a short story about a humanoid assistant and the horror it brings on the family who bought it. Mr. Hurwitz is a best-selling author, playwright and comic book writer.
- 256 pages
- Publisher : Thomas & Mercer
- Language : English
- ISBN-10 : 1662539347
My rating for The Delivery - 5
Buy The Delivery from Amazon.com*
More books by Gregg Hurwitz*
Thoughts:
This book asks very important questions about the ethics of AI, and if humanity will figure out how to govern it. We’re living through a technological revolution and this novel highlight some of the dangers we’d be facing if we don’t pay attention.
The Delivery by Gregg Hurwitz is a short thriller with a lot to say. It’s a slow burn, and a great buildup where we, the readers, know what happened while the protagonists refuse to believe it.
I found the futuristic vision of AI humanoid helpers to be realistic. I could certainly see it coming to fruition within five years or so. What I don’t really agree with is that the AI would be so literal (they’re not now) or programmed not to do harm – but that wouldn’t make a good story – and this is a really good story.
Even though the book is short, it has a lot to say and does so very well. It’s one that kept me thinking long after I read it about the implications of this technology which, let’s face it, we don’t really understand.
Synopsis:
Rebecca and Mark Higgins are a successful couple struggling with family trauma, stressful jobs and taking care of their Maddy, their neurodivergent daughter. The couple decides to invest in a humanoid robot, Mr. Man, to help them with their busy lives.
Mr. Man, however, is still a computer and needs directions. Their AI companion, designed to anticipate their needs is idyllic, but his interpretation of their wishes, spoken or not, leads to horrific events.
Buy The Delivery from Amazon.com*
More books by Gregg Hurwitz*
Zohar — Man of la Book
Disclaimer: I got this book for free
*Amazon links point to an affiliate account, the money is usually spent on books
