Mitchell, Syne. The last mortal man.

MITCHELL, Syne. The last mortal man. (Book One of the Deathless.). Penguin, Roc. 435p. c2006. 0-451-46094-4. $6.99. SA

It started innocently enough--just trying to kill a nano-biology capitalist, Lucius. Revolutionist Clay had convinced Alexa that the violence would be a good thing. But at the point of contact, Alexa has second thoughts, and ends up saving the life of the multi-millionaire instead. For her troubles, Alexa is "converted" into a deathless nano-body and becomes indentured to Lucius for over two centuries. Lucius's great-grandson Jack ironically is allergic to nano-biology, so he is one of the people in the world who are NOT nano-enhanced. Happy as a low-profile rancher in Montana alongside Mennonites, Jack is called back to Lucius's hideaway as disassemblers are destroying nano-built cities. Lucius is dying, but he wants his children, now numbering 70, and his corporation saved. It is up to Jack and Alexa to figure out a way. Featuring a complex and nuanced plot with a range of unique characters, this first book in the Deathless series offers a suspenseful read. The writing is seamless. The deaths are surprisingly sanitized, and the sex is pretty minimal. Children are the highest value. Though the story is aimed at older readers, this book would be rated PG- 13 at the most. Dr. Lesley Farmer, Lib. Svcs., CSULB, Long Beach, CA

S--Recommended for senior high school students.

A--Recommended for advanced students and adults. This code will help librarians and teachers working in high schools where there are honors and advanced placement students. This also will help extend KLIATT's usefulness in public libraries.