{"book":{"book":"Ply","author":"Hernan Diaz","publicationYear":2026,"description":"Hernan Diaz's novel 'Ply' is set in a future where major institutions have completely fallen apart. While the narrative initially seems to center on systems and community, it ultimately unfolds as an exploration of selfhood and individuality. The story's protagonist works as a 'pincher,' making a living by stealing electricity from the grid to sell on the black market. This perilous work leads her to develop an invention capable of drastically transforming her reality. Through her journey, the novel engages with themes of understanding the United States through technology as well as the phenomenon of rewilding.","image":"https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/2160x2160+0+0/resize/3000/quality/66/format/jpg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F49%2Fab%2F9104e39b4e628a1207829dd626f6%2Ff224825c-0fd8-45fb-b58d-65bc7ae021fb.jpg","date":"2026-10-15"}}