Book Log 2022 #66: Grass by Sherri Tepper

Humanity has spread throughout the galaxy, but that spread is threatened by a plague that is taking root across all human settlements. The powers that be notice that one planet, Grass (named for its vast prairies), seems immune to the plague, and sends investigators to figure out why. The investigators ingratiate themselves into the aristocratic ruling class of the planet, who have adapted local fauna to engage in a form of fox hunting that's all the rage. The participation in these events, and a deeper look into the native life forms of the planet, lead to a conclusion about the plague and immunity that put Grass the the future of humanity in jeopardy.

The book is seen as a classic, and is noted for its use of feminist, ecological, and class themes. That being said, I found I disliked the book more as I went along. One review I read of the book suggested that it felt like two books put together to make one, with the second half marred by an unexpected romantic story line and a convoluted reveal as to why the planet is immune. I don't know that I feel exactly that way, but I do feel like there was a shift that significantly changed where the book was going.

This is the first book in a trilogy, though I don't think I'll pick up the other two. That's it for 2022!