M. T. Anderson's Landscape with Invisible Hand is lauded for its imaginative world-building and sharp social commentary, effectively blending satire with poignant themes. However, some readers find the narrative pacing uneven and certain character arcs underdeveloped. Overall, it remains a thought-provoking read that challenges societal norms within a speculative framework.

A reader profile for Landscape with Invisible Hand by M. T. Anderson would include fans of satirical science fiction exploring dystopian themes. Readers who appreciated the socio-political commentary in The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood or the dark humor in 1984 by George Orwell will find this book engaging and thought-provoking.

In Landscape with Invisible Hand by M. T. Anderson, Adam Costello struggles to navigate a post-alien-invasion world where the technologically advanced vuvv have sold their innovations to humans, causing economic collapse and widespread poverty. As society crumbles, Adam and his family resort to various means to survive while Adam uses his art to convey harsh truths about their new reality. The novel includes discussion of suicide and uses offensive and discriminatory language in direct quotations.

Mysterious / Dark / Unnerving / Melancholic / Bittersweet

**Adam Costello**  
A teenage high school student and budding artist, Adam navigates the challenging world imposed by the vuvv, balancing his passion for art and commitment to his family. He serves as the protagonist and narrator of the story, reflecting on societal issues through his experiences.

**The Vuvv**  
An alien species resembling rocky tables, they have taken over Earth's economy and impose a consumerist, oppressive system that affects all human characters, including Adam and his family.

**Mrs. Costello**  
Adam and Nattie's mother, who maintains an optimistic spirit despite losing her job to vuvv technology. She supports her family through challenging times and embodies resilience.

**Nattie Costello**  
Adam's younger sister, known for her humor and creativity, who sacrifices her childhood pleasures to contribute to her family's survival.

**Mr. Costello**  
The father of Adam and Nattie, who struggles with his sense of worth after losing his job. His actions are influenced by his societal and personal challenges.

**Mr. Reilly**  
A volunteer art teacher who works as a door attendant, he becomes a mentor and father figure to Adam, encouraging his pursuit of art.

**Chloe Marsh**  
Adam's romantic interest and the younger sister of Hunter Marsh, she proposes that they participate in a reality dating show, affecting Adam's life with her decisions.

**Hunter Marsh**  
Chloe's brother, who works at a vuvv rendering plant and strives to assimilate into the vuvv culture, embodying a satirical representation of blind ambition.

**Buddy Gui**  
A fellow artist and schoolmate of Adam who becomes a competitor in an art contest and forms a romantic relationship with Chloe, representing pragmatism in the face of artistic integrity.

M. T. Anderson

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Landscape with Invisible Hand Summary

Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-6

Landscape with Invisible Hand Chapters 1-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-12

Landscape with Invisible Hand Chapters 7-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-17

Landscape with Invisible Hand Chapters 13-17 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 18-22

Landscape with Invisible Hand Chapters 18-22 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 23-26

Landscape with Invisible Hand Chapters 23-26 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 27-30

Landscape with Invisible Hand Chapters 27-30 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Landscape with Invisible Hand Character Analysis

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Themes

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Landscape with Invisible Hand

Before You Read

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