Chung Mae lives in Kizuldah, the last
village to be found by the wonders of the Internet, where she advises village women
on beauty and fashion
matters, based on sketchy ideas gleaned from rushed experitions to nearby and slightly more modern towns. Everything
changes, though, when her friend Kwan''s wealthy husband gets the village''s first computer-like television set, an event that coincides with the introduction of Air, a new technology that will wirelessly bring the benefits of the digital world to everyone across the globe, whether they want it or not.
The first Test of this new format, causes widespread panic and catastrophe, resulting in the death of a much-respected member of the community. Mae, closest to the deceased at the time, inherits her memories. Although at first in shock about the changes looming and startled by the sudden invasion of another soul residing within her mind, she soon realizes that she and her fellow villagers must prepare themselves to meet the future head on. Not only must Mae learn to adapt, but she must also learn to negotiate what she wants from government officials and ruthless corporate executives.
As she conducts her investigations into her village''s state of readiness, her relationships with and her perceptions of neighbors and friends she has known all her life, changes. Some favor progress while others fear and oppose it. Matters are further complicated when Mae falls in love with a neighbor, an event that not only endangers her marriage, but also her standing and credibility within the village.