s.penkevich's Reviews > The Infinity Particle

Italian theoretical physicist Carlo Rovelli wrote that quantum mechanics is essentially about relationships, that ‘an electron is nowhere when it is not interacting,’ which is all a beautiful reminder that the ways we live, love and interact with one another is what makes up our world. Wendy Xu brings this up in her gorgeous new graphic novel, The Infinity Particle, and through this touching sci-fi story expands on these ideas between humans as well as a future with interpersonal relationships with AI. After moving Mars for an exciting job working for a pioneering engineer in the field of AI, Clementine finds herself caught up in the mysteries surrounding her boss’ personal AI unit, Kyle. Though attempting to help him uncovers big ethical issues surrounding AI as well as emotions deep within each other. Stunning in both artistic and emotional quality, Infinity Particle probes ethical quandaries of autonomy and consent, moving at an exciting pace through the growing mysteries of this highly engaging and thoughtful graphic novel.

I’m sure you’ve seen that the news is constantly full of stories concerning AI on issues of consent and also bias (also we should be paying artists, writers and actors), though Infinity Particle takes questions of consent to the future on issues about how much autonomy a self-sufficient AI would have in society. Xu—who’s graphic novels I always adore and I highly recommend Tidesong—presents us with questions on identity in a really interesting way and aspect on AI’s developing emotions as well as emotional connections. I enjoyed how much the story is steeped in STEM and ethical issues without getting overly complex while still being quite ponderous. I also loved all the AI companions who are incredibly cute:

The cat buddy especially since he reminds me of the Lumbercats from that Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts show. The art in this is breathtaking and really pops in its minimal color palette. Xu has creative use of panels to push dialogue along, never gets overly wordy, and keeps the pace moving quite efficiently. That said, while it doesn’t necessarily feel too rushed it does sort of hit all the plot points and reach the conclusion a bit hurriedly. Still, this hits some strong emotions. There is a really adorable romance plot, but also a lot of time spent on feelings of loss. The story only hints at the backstories of characters, but in ways where the small glimpses explode into big feelings in your heart and make you really feel for the characters.

This was a lot of fun and really heartfelt and adorable. It is interesting to see how many graphic novels seem to be tackling issues around AI’s integrating with society—I enjoyed this one more but Pixels of You also takes an interesting look at AI ethics as well as a romantic relationship between a flesh and blood human and AI human—which I suppose is a future reality we are rapidly approaching so its nice to see books already probing the big questions. Wendy Xu is always a delight and The Infinity Particle was a lovely read.

4.5/5