Jennifer Government
Author: Max Barry
Amazon info
Without spoiling anything, it helps to know that in the world of "Jennifer Government" everyone's last name is the name of their employer. Thus John Nike works for Nike and of course, Jennifer works for the government. I found the book to be a pleasant and funny satire when the free market economy is taken to the extreme (and when frequent flier points take over the world of commerce). For example, if you want the police to investigate a crime you will have to pay for it. Of course, they will try to prevent crimes for free - but investigations once a crime has occurred - that costs. Of course, if you are signed up with the right "marketing alliance" you will earn points for the criminal investigation.
In typical Max Barry style, the plot is a bit convoluted and contrived - with multiple and unlikely links between all the characters. In fact, sometimes it can be a bit challenging to remember who is working with whom on what - and who are the good guys and the bad guys. Also, I found this book to be extremely similar to "The Company: A Novel" - and while both were enjoyable, I was hoping for something a little more surprising from this fairly clever author.
Recommended to all Max Barry fans or those who have never read him.