Lou Arrendale is a bioinformatics specialist who is autistic, and has made a good life for himself working in pattern recognition. A new manager at the firm where he works puts pressure on his department, where many autistic people work. Lou is pressured to undergo an experimental treatment that might "cure" his autism. Lou does not think he needs curing, but he risks losing his job and other accommodations the company has put in place for its autistic employees if he does not undergo it.
Lou struggles with the idea of going through this "treatment" for his autism while he pursues fencing with his "normal" friends and continues to go to work. His autistic friends, as well as himself, meet together after work and discuss what or what not to do.
Reception
Speed of Dark was released to high praise from reviewers. SF Site stated that "At worst, Speed of Dark is a magnificent character study. At best, it's the most powerful book you'll read this year",[1] and Infinity Plus described it as "one of those exceptionally rare novels that have the power to alter one's entire worldview, and reading it is a profoundly rewarding and enriching experience."[5]
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