Exploring the Moral Maze of Organ Trade: A Conversation with Author David Shactman

In an enlightening episode of Book Lover‘s Companion, host Edith engages with David Shactman, a healthcare expert and fiction author, to delve into the intricate web of morality, truth, and thriller. Their discussion circles around David’s latest book, “Mortal Choice: A Medical Mystery,” a gripping tale that raises ethical questions about the illegal organ trade and its real-world implications.

**A Narrative Rooted in Reality**

When crafting “Mortal Choice,” David drew from his extensive background in health policy research. With years spent studying medical tourism at Brandeis University, he uncovered harsh realities that inspired the book’s core narrative: the illegal trade of kidneys. This market places families in impossible dilemmas, torn between the legality of their actions and the life of a loved one.

**Diving into The Plot**

“Mortal Choice” weaves the personal and professional struggles of its characters, FBI agent Cassandra Crawford and Boston detective Martin Goldberg. This dynamic duo unravels a dark underworld, beginning with two murders linked to organ harvesting. Their journey exposes not only the characters’ inner conflicts but also the inadequacies in current organ donation systems worldwide.

**Real-Life Inspirations and Challenges**

The authenticity of Shactman’s characters can be attributed to his meticulous approach. With friends in law enforcement and an immersive exploration of Boston’s urban fabric, Shactman ensures a realistic portrayal of the investigative landscape. Nevertheless, he faced criticism for tackling diverse characters—an African American FBI agent and a Jewish Boston detective—reflecting ongoing debates around authenticity in fiction.

**The Craft of Fiction**

This transition from writing nonfiction to penning a novel was not without its hurdles. Shactman shares that while nonfiction grounded his career, his jump into fiction allowed him to explore truths that resonate on an emotional level, an advantage the genre holds over factual expositions. His shift to alternating first-person perspectives posed its own set of challenges, ultimately offering readers a deeper, more intimate experience.

**Broader Themes and Ethical Considerations**

Throughout the interview, ethical dilemmas are at the forefront, not only within the fictional world but also in real life. Discussions pivot on whether organ sales should be legalized and regulated. While Shactman acknowledges the pros and cons, his book focuses on highlighting the problem rather than offering solutions. This approach invites readers to ponder complex ethical concerns that resonate both domestically and globally.

**Looking Ahead**

David Shactman’s exploration into organ trade complexities isn’t limited to “Mortal Choice.” He teases future projects—a prequel shedding light on the early partnership between Crawford and Goldberg, and another tackling the sale of cells and embryonic tissues. These upcoming titles promise to expand the narrative universe, exploring new ethical frontiers.

**A Writer’s Reflections and Aspirations**

David Shactman’s transition from academia to fiction highlights a journey of discovery—not just personal but for readers who are invited to question societal norms. His advice for aspiring writers underscores the importance of starting early, loving literature, and embracing the challenge of storytelling—a sentiment echoed in Edith’s appreciation for reader-inspired podcasts like Book Lovers Companion.

**Final Thoughts**

The episode wraps up with mutual appreciation, emphasizing the power of literature to bridge gaps and incite discussion. “Book Lover’s Companion” continues its mission to uplift voices and stories that challenge the status quo, cultivating a community of readers eager to confront the world’s complexities, one story at a time.

Yours sincerely,

M. Maurice