Shadows of Sherwood

The novel is set in a dystopian near-future, in which wired technology is obsolete. Much like the reader’s world, wireless technology is ubiquitous in Nott City, but in the novel, radio and cell towers are considered useless. Yet, Robyn, Robyn’s father, and Scarlet collect obsolete devices, including voltage adapters and push-button cell phones. Such devices form a prominent motif in the novel. They function as a motif as they move the plot along and are tied in with important thematic elements, such as fighting surveillance technology. As symbols, modems, TexTers, wires, and Robyn’s moped represent resourcefulness and resistance to the status quo. As the narrative proceeds, it becomes clear that Robyn’s dad was fascinated with old technology because it can escape the surveilled wireless system of Nott City. Since wireless tech tracks citizens through their tags, the best way to beat the system is to go offline or opt for ancient technology.

The juxtaposition between high-tech wireless technology and obsolete modems also generates humor. While Mallet and Crown are tracking down rebels through sophisticated maneuvers, Scarlet hacks into their systems using a modem, a device so obsolete Robyn does not even recognize it.