Book Review: In Real Life by Cory Doctorow and Jen Wang

Anda is at a new school, and a bit lonely. When she hears someone speaking about a new online role playing game, she quickly signs up. Her instant status, and skill at gaming allows her to quickly rises through the ranks of the game. It isn't long before she starts taking on missions where she earns real world money.

Soon she realizes that not everything in the game is as it seems. The missions to kill characters that are suspected bots, reveals that there are people playing the game in China for money, in very poor working conditions. As she learns more about these players, she looks at the game differently, causing trouble both in the game and in real life.

In Real Life is a graphic novel that throws you in a virtual world, where there are real life consequences. What seems like it should be fun and games, turns out to be life and death for others. Anda starts to see the real world more clearly, and even tries to ignite change. The introduction to the book explains more about how real world economics are at play in games like this.

In Real Life is must read for gamers, and people who like to think a bit outside the box.

I'll see you @ the library!
Katie


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