The Test is a science fiction novel written by Sylvain Neuvel. It was published in 2019 and explores themes of power, morality, and the human condition. The story takes place in a near-future dystopian society where immigration policies have become increasingly strict.

The novel follows the journey of Idir Jalil, an Iranian immigrant who applies for British citizenship. In this society, the government has implemented a new test called the British Values Test, which determines an individual’s eligibility for citizenship. The test consists of 25 questions that assess one’s knowledge and understanding of British values and culture.

Idir is selected to take the test, along with nine other candidates from various backgrounds. They are brought to a secret facility where they are subjected to a series of psychological experiments. The candidates are placed in isolated rooms and monitored closely by the examiners.

As the test progresses, it becomes clear that there is more at stake than just citizenship. The examiners manipulate the candidates’ emotions and push them to their limits, testing their moral compasses and ethical boundaries. The candidates are forced to make difficult choices that challenge their beliefs and values.

Throughout the novel, Neuvel delves into the complexities of human nature and the lengths people will go to survive or achieve their goals. He explores themes of discrimination, prejudice, and the abuse of power. The characters’ backgrounds and experiences shape their responses to the test, highlighting the impact of personal history on decision-making.

The Test raises thought-provoking questions about identity, nationalism, and the definition of citizenship. It challenges readers to reflect on their own values and consider how they would respond in similar situations. The narrative is gripping and fast-paced, keeping readers engaged until the very end.

In conclusion, The Test by Sylvain Neuvel is a compelling science fiction novel that explores themes of power, morality, and the human condition through the lens of a dystopian society’s citizenship test. It raises important questions about identity and challenges readers to examine their own values and beliefs.

• The Test

• By: Sylvain Neuvel
• Narrated by: Neil Shah

England, the future is not far away. Idir is taking a British citizenship test. He wants his family to belong.

Twenty-five questions to determine your destiny. Twenty-five opportunities to impress. When the test takes place unexpectedly and tragically, Idir is given the right to life and death.

How do you value a life when all you have are choices?

I read this book because I loved Sylvain Neuvel’s Themis Files and was looking forward to it. I was not disappointed. I really enjoyed this little novel. Conecpt is well done, the characters are great. I just wish it was a bit longer, maybe 3 hours instead of 2. It’s either way though. I can’t wait to read whatever Sylvain Neuvel releases next.

I’m not nearly done because I don’t like how I feel when the gentleman is asked to choose who will die. Great narration, great story, but a little unsettling.

This short story was recommended by several magazines so I’m not sure but OMG is an amazing book. Take your time for this short story. Very strong and emotional. Delivers a powerful impact and a lot to think about. How deep are the ethical difficulties and effects of our experience.

Lighting, salvation, moral choices with no definitive answers, and especially, the futility of doing your best in a no-win situation, this book moved me, rather than in a rainbow and glittery way. Best read in a long time.

Neil Shah’s performance was impressive with its ability to draw me deep into the universe where simulation creates the ultimate test of personality for both test takers and test takers. Kudos to Sylvain Neuvel for her clever and ingenious writing. I recommend this book.

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