Shades of Grey: The Road to High Saffron (2009) by Jasper Fforde is a dystopian novel set in the world of Chromatacia, where society is divided into rigid castes based on the colors its inhabitants can see. The protagonist, Eddie Russett, is a young man from the red caste who is sent to the fringe town of East Carmine for a census job. While there, Eddie meets Jane, a member of the lowest caste, and together they embark on a journey that leads them to uncover dark secrets about their world. The novel blends satire, humor, and a critique of arbitrary societal norms while exploring themes of color, power, and societal division. Fforde’s playful tone contrasts with the serious implications of the dystopian setting, offering both an entertaining and thought-provoking read. The novel is set in a post-apocalyptic version of Wales, and there are plans for sequels and a prequel.
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