Summary

The post-apocalyptic novel Theory of Bastards, set in the near future, follows the story of Frankie Burk. She is studying the mating habits of bonobos at the Foundation near Kansas City, until an apocalyptic event changes her focus from research to survival. The book is divided into three sections: days during which she begins her research at the Foundation; days during a dust storm; and days after the dust storm.

Chapter 1 covers Day 1. Dr. Frankie Burk, a 33-year-old evolutionary biologist who was recovering from a recent hysterectomy, arrived at the Foundation. Executive Director Bellows said he was honored to have her.

A staffer brought a wheelchair and wheeled Frankie into a courtyard for a photoshoot. She objected, saying that she had not accepted the job yet and she wanted to see the animals. Everyone apologized, and someone wheeled her toward the bonobo enclosure. Frankie...