Summary: Karen Lord has a background that’s a story in its own right. Born in Barbados, she studied at the University of Toronto, before gaining her master's degree in science and technology policy in Glasgow and then a Doctorate in the sociology of religion in Wales. Her bio speaks of training soldiers, of diplomacy and of teaching physics, and then of course there’s the writing. Her debut novel, Redemption in Indigo, was published last year and has won the Mythopoeic Award and the Crawford Award for best first fantasy and, quite recently, The Golden Tentacle Award at the Kitschies. Her new novel is a lovely work of science fiction, called The Best of All Possible Worlds. Set on the melting-pot world of Cygnus Beta, it begins as the Sadiri, a rigidly self-controlled society of great galactic importance, are trying to come to terms with their own near-extinction, brought about by vengeful neighbours. The novel, with a deft and gentle gaze, looks at the ideas of race and culture, of coming to terms with tragedy and the ethical implications of telepathy. Karen joined Sky Kirkham to talk about extinction, cultural identity and Star Trek. Originally broadcast on 11/04/2013. The Best of All Possible Worlds is out through Pan Macmillan.
