Plagued by mutations brought on by hundreds of years of radiation, chemicals, and poisons, the human race makes a radical decision in an effort to save itself. The ancients recognize that there is no way to prevent mutations when there are thousands of variations in the human chromosomes; therefore, they decide to simplify things, controlling the mutations by creating only four variations of humanity. These new "simples" will become the caretakers of the world until the mutations go below a safe level and the radiation can be tolerated again. After a thousand years, the computer monitors will start the process of changing it back. Unfortunately, two thousand years have passed, and there seems to be no sign that the mutations are dying down. This novel follows the adventures of Benadek, one of a few true humans who are born during this time. Originally Benadek seeks to become an apprentice to a wizard in exchange for food and a warm place to sleep. What he receives is a good deal more than he bargained for. This novel explores the roots of humanity, commenting on individuality, human purpose, and spirituality. Future humans reading the story of Benadek and his friends as if it were ancient history make the complex plot more difficult with the added layers of "editorial" notes. The jumps back and forth in time and space, coupled with odd names and unfamiliar imagery, make this book difficult to follow at times. Graphic sexual passages also make the story more appropriate for older young adult readers. This fast-paced novel will appeal to both readers of fantasy as well as science fiction. VOYA CODES: 3Q 4P S A/YA (Readable without serious defects; Broad general YA appeal; Senior High,defined as grades 10 to 12; Adult and Young Adult). 2000, Baen Books, 412p, pb. Ages 16 to Adult. Reviewer: Heather Hepler VOYA, February 2001 (Vol. 23, No.6)