Last year, James Alan Gardner's first novel, Expendable, received critical acclaim for its depth of characterization and riveting view of the future. Not content to simply rehash traditional science-fiction, Gardner chose to examine the darker side of humanity and focused on the plight of the Explorer Corps, Expendable Crew Members.

In Commitment Hour, Gardner once again delves into the darker side of humanity. This time, he chooses the idyllic, simple village of Tober Cove as the setting for his tale. It's the 25th century and Earth has long since been abandoned by both its population and its technology. Life is simple for the remaining inhabitants. They are fishermen, hunters, and the like. Technology more advanced than a spear is the stuff of legends and old rusting ruins.

But, this village is unique. At the age of twenty, everyone must make a choice, a Commitment. What is this monumental choice? Nothing less than what sex to spend the rest of their life as. Ok... That got my attention. The story rapidly unfolds (page two, for those who may think I'm giving away key parts of the plot) and we are introduced to a society where, for the first twenty years of their life, everyone switches sex each summer. Every individual experiences all the emotions, problems and difficulties of both sexes as they grow up and, eventually, choose which sex they prefer to be.

We are introduced to the central character, Fullin, on the eve of his (the character is currently male) Commitment. Things start to happen fast and furious as Fullin, and others, are drawn into a web of controversy when an outsider visits the village.

Gardner explores the social stigma we attach to choice, while the mystery of Tober Cove is revealed. Personally, I found the mystery to be more interesting than the social commentary, but Commitment Hour has plenty for everybody and great second showing for a promising Canadian author.

Wayne MacLaurin is a regular SF Site reviewer. More of his opinions are available on our Book Reviews pages.