The Visitor is a unique blend of science fiction, social commentary, and human drama, with dystopian and literary elements. It explores identity, alienation, social and political conditions, and government overreach in our current society from the viewpoint of an outsider--an alien spirit which has replaced that of a human after an automobile accident--or is he really just a human soul affected by a traumatic brain injury?
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What reviewers and readers are already saying about The Visitor:
Editorial Reviews:
Original, clever, imaginative, compelling, and a fun, fascinating read from cover to cover, "The Visitor" by Mitchell Waldman is an extraordinary and recommended pick for all dedicated science fiction fans. While especially and unreservedly recommended for community library Science Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that this trade paperback edition of "The Visitor" from All Things That Matter Press is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.99, Amazon).
--Midwest Book Review (read the full review here.)
The Visitor melds sci-fi with human drama. It also throws in biting commentary of a dystopian nature. That nature is pretty much what is currently unfolding in the U.S. The strong-arm type of arresting and detaining of illegal immigrants in the novel is exactly what is happening in the U.S. right now. The messages in the media that are being constrained by the government in the novel appears to be happening in real life in the U.S. And the unhinged President in the novel, Wolff, parallels a lot of Donald Trump's words and actions. If you like a good story that blends science fiction with human drama with dystopian elements thrown in, The Visitor is something you should read. Even if you're a die-hard conservative who aligns with the current U.S. President, this is a good read. It just might get you to think about your choices.
--BVS Reviews (read the full review here.)
A reflective dystopian sci-fi novel, "The Visitor" by Mitchell Waldman, explores themes of identity and social control through the story of Ash, who perceives himself as an off-world spirit in the body of Edward Fleishman after a life-altering accident. He encounters uncertainty regarding his identity as he wakes up to an unfamiliar spouse and a society enveloped in surveillance. The narrative's tension hinges on whether his experience is an alien possession or a result of neurological trauma, maintaining ambiguity throughout. The novel effectively critiques contemporary life by focusing on the pressures of bureaucracies and "helpful" authorities, transforming mundane interactions into tests of identity and consent. Influences from authors like Orwell and Philip K. Dick resonate through the reflective voice that prioritises characters' inner struggles over dramatic spectacles. . . .Waldman's writing style is steady and introspective, offering a minimalistic worldbuilding approach that invites readers to perceive dystopia through implications rather than overt descriptions. This book appeals to literary-oriented sci-fi enthusiasts drawn to themes of embodiment and memory, seeking a narrative filled with introspection and social critique rather than high-concept action. . . Overall, "The Visitor" is recommended for those who appreciate psychological complexity. -- Book Reviews Cafe (read the full review here).
A unique blend of sci-fi and culture-fiction, this is a story unlike you've ever read before. The Visitor by Mitchell Waldman is an emotional thrill ride through otherworldly storytelling. Check out The Visitor if you've been in a place where you want introspection and a change of sci-fi pace. -- Justin Alcala, author of A Dead-End Job
Amazon Reviewers:
If you’re into sci-fi stories with a heavy dose of introspection and an imaginative plot, this one’s for you. Five stars from me, and a quiet thank-you to the author for writing something truly memorable!
This is perfect for reader's seeking literary sci-fi with a psycholinguistic endeavor. It's bizarre and thought-provoking with a subtly striking conclusion.
A transformative experience for those who appreciate well-rendered speculative fiction.
Though it’s science fiction, the story is emotional and thoughtful, exploring what it means to be human. The pacing and atmosphere are well done, and the ending feels satisfying. A good read for fans of thoughtful, imaginative stories.
The friendly yet eerie writing style would appeal to anyone who cherishes psychological realism where reality and the self are constantly called into question.
Blending speculative fiction with psychological depth, this thought-provoking novel explores themes of consciousness, trust, and what it truly means to belong in a world that feels anything but familiar.
