Search History

Eugene Lim's novel "Search History" explores grief, storytelling, and identity through the lens of a reincarnated cyberdog. The story follows a bereft friend who discovers that their friend Frank has been reincarnated as a dog, leading to a series of adventures and introspection about consumption, grief, and the stories we tell ourselves.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 21 October 2021
Publisher: Coffee House Press

Search History, a novel by Eugene Lim, delves into the complexities of grieving and storytelling through a unique blend of uncanny juxtapositions and subversive satire. The story revolves around Frank Exit, a bereft friend who discovers that his deceased friend has been reincarnated as a dog. This revelation sets off a series of adventures, interspersed with digressions on topics such as AI-generated fiction, virtual reality, Asian American identity in the arts, and lost parents.

Written in elliptical, propulsive prose, Search History explores the depths of personal and collective consciousness, questioning the nature of consumption, the process of grieving, and the stories we construct for ourselves. The novel employs a diverse cast of characters, including an AI-generated fiction writer, a virtual reality enthusiast, and a group of Asian American artists, who all become embroiled in the pursuit of the mysterious canine.

Through its exploration of these themes, Search History offers a thought-provoking and provocative examination of the human condition. Lim's writing is characterized by its sharp wit, dark humor, and ability to blend genres, creating a narrative that is both accessible and complex. The novel's exploration of identity and the search for meaning is particularly resonant, particularly for readers who are navigating their own personal journeys of loss and self-discovery.

In conclusion, Search History is a remarkable novel that offers a fresh and innovative perspective on the complexities of grieving and storytelling. Eugene Lim's writing is intelligent, engaging, and thought-provoking, and the novel's exploration of identity and the human condition is both relevant and relatable. Whether you are a fan of literary fiction or simply seeking a novel that challenges your perceptions of the world, Search History is a must-read.

Weight: 204g
Dimension: 127 x 191 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781566896177