Every genre of literature has its functional objectives. Where realist fiction brings us closer to reality and social issues, historical fiction takes us to the past while dystopian literature provides us with a dreadful representation of the future of our society. Omar Iftikhar’s debut novel, “Divided Species” is a science fiction story set in Karachi.
Yes, you read it right; Karachi! The backstory suggests that the Taleyken race, extraterrestrial beings (aliens) from the Planet Arplon contacted the people from a specific area of South Asia during the mid-19th century.
This area is today known as Karachi. This human-Taleyken relationship turned sour when the trust between them was compromised over the protection of a secret mineral resource. An intergalactic battle is about to begin that may turn Karachi into nothing but debris.
Interestingly, Omar has created a factual fiction story revolving around the main genre of science fiction. The story is set in Karachi, which makes the novel unique, as authors have not used this city as the primary setting of their story – especially when presenting a science fiction narrative. The story takes the readers through the streets and lanes of Karachi, the ones whose iconic stature remains a part of the city’s sights and sounds.
From Sea View to Gulshan, from Lucky Star to Shahrae Faisal, the story brings the intergalactic battle of intense proportions to Karachi. The story, through its vividly created characters – both humans and extraterrestrial – has elements of leadership, courage, hope, sacrifice, revenge, and guilt.
Developing characters for a fiction novel – especially one that involves out-of-the-world creatures – is nothing short of a daunting task. Omar Iftikhar had the room to create any sort of creature yet he had to maintain the case of plausibility and believability. This was perhaps a challenge for Omar when he was writing the novel. He had to balance and reciprocate to some extent the humans’ courage and resources with that of the extraterrestrial beings.
The action begins from the first chapter and continues for the next 41 chapters until the climax is achieved ahead of the resolution. Divided Species must be read by readers of all ages for it examines how humans interact under pressure, amid fear, and show qualities of leadership when they face insurmountable challenges. Omar has used such a language and vocabulary that is appropriate for all ages.
The book received an endorsement from Awais Khan, author of “In the Company of Strangers.” He said, “An intriguing concept executed with expert precision. This book is absolutely compelling. Omar Iftikhar is definitely a talent to watch out for!” Ambreen Arshad, Section In Charge, Daily Dawn endorsed the book by saying, “The interaction between the humans and extraterrestrial beings unfolding in Karachi is something that you do not read often. The narrative keeps you curious and captivated.”
According to Omair Alavi, Entertainment Journalist, “Divided Species is an interesting read, especially for the fans of the Sci-Fi genre in Pakistan. It not only shows that Pakistani writers have the imagination to equal the best in the world but also that if given the chance, they can create stories of international level in familiar surroundings. Best of luck to Omar Iftikhar, to new beginnings.”
Safwa Mir, Organizational Psychologist, Researcher, and Content Consultant, is the Editorial Consultant of Divided Species. She said, “The biggest appeal to me in reading Omar’s work is his ability to produce novel concepts. He used the full capacity of a sci-fi genre to be creative yet balance the presence and support of all the main characters in this book.
This highlighted the concept that People need People to function and survive.” This book will appeal to the residents of Karachi and those from other cities of Pakistan who have an attachment with Karachi in whatever it may be.
Virtual Book Launch: Divided Species by Muhammad Omar Iftikhar
If you want to know what happens in the novel, get your copy today. For more info: facebook.com/DividedSpecies.
Ali Abbas believes in the power of clear, straightforward writing. His blog posts tackle everyday topics with relatable insights and easy-to-follow advice. With a conversational style, he makes complex subjects feel understandable. He’s dedicated to sharing knowledge and empowering readers to take action. Find his latest posts on trending in social.
