Kate Roberts

Why did McKewan write what is in essence a futuristic story set in the 80's? And set in a bizarre, unreal 80's in which the famous names of characters are real figures of political history yet having no factual substance. For example the UK lost the Falklands war and Wedgwood Benn was killed in the notorious Brighton bombing. It was confusing and irritating and added nothing to the story. Parts of the story held a certain fascination, but they were few and far between. It's as if McKewan has forgotten historical facts and can't be bothered to research them. A real disappointment.