A post-pandemic journey of survival, redemption, and unlikely friendships—The Way redefines the dystopian Western.
Cary Groner’s The Way offers a thoughtful, character-driven exploration of a world reshaped by catastrophe. Set in 2048, this dystopian Western follows Will Collins, a 52-year-old Buddhist caretaker who is thrust into a perilous journey across a desolate, yet oddly revitalized, America.
Will’s solitude is disrupted when Lars, a California scientist and father of his long-lost love Eva, tasks him with transporting a life-saving ampoule to the Sovereign Republic of California. Joined by his animal companions—a clever raven named Peau and a loyal cat, Casse—Will embarks on a mule-drawn trek through a transformed landscape. Along the way, he rescues Sophie, a sharp and spirited 14-year-old orphan, while evading Flynn, a ruthless militia leader bent on stopping him.
Groner’s worldbuilding shines in his descriptions of a post-pandemic Earth. Passenger pigeons soar through the skies, bison roam freely, and mutant crocodiles lurk in treacherous rivers. These vivid details, along with diverse settlements that range from welcoming to hostile, create a hauntingly believable backdrop.
The novel’s strength lies in its characters. Will’s reluctant heroism, rooted in Buddhist philosophy and his ability to communicate with animals, makes him a unique and compelling protagonist. Sophie’s fiery resilience and the interplay between the human and animal characters bring warmth and depth to this otherwise bleak world.
While the narrative occasionally slows with heavy philosophical musings and pandemic history, its meditative tone complements the story’s themes of healing and rediscovery. The climax may lean on improbable twists, but the heart of the novel remains grounded in its exploration of humanity’s capacity for both destruction and hope.
The Way is more than a post-apocalyptic tale—it’s a journey of connection, compassion, and finding meaning in a fractured world. Fans of reflective dystopian fiction and richly textured settings will find much to admire in Groner’s thoughtful, hopeful vision.
