Survival is Hard by Letty Frame is an evocative exploration into the resilience of the human spirit, set against a backdrop of a dystopian future where society as we know it has crumbled. Frame's narrative is as haunting as it is enlightening, delving deep into the instincts that drive humanity in times of dire crisis. This book, while fictional, mirrors many of the existential threats we face today, making it a compelling read for aficionados of both speculative fiction and realistic survival narratives.

The story is centered around the journey of Mara, a young woman who, when we meet her, has already lost nearly everything to a series of global catastrophes—the collapse of the economy, severe environmental disasters, and a pandemic that wiped out a significant portion of the population. What sets Mara apart is not just her indomitable will to survive, but the way she embodies hope even in the darkest moments. Letty Frame's choice of protagonist is a powerful testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the complexities of human emotion during times of distress.

Letty Frame's world-building is meticulously detailed, presenting readers with a vivid portrayal of a society that has broken down yet clings to fragments of its former structure. Her descriptions of the landscapes, ravaged by climate extremes and human neglect, are particularly striking. Frame’s ability to paint a picture of desolate urban decay alongside verdant natural overgrowth helps readers visualize a world that feels eerily familiar, yet frighteningly alien. The stark contrast between the past civilization’s achievements and its ruins serves as a poignant reminder of our own world’s fragility.

The pacing of the novel is deliberate, with Frame taking her time to build the layers of her setting and characters. This slow burn might challenge readers looking for immediate action; however, those who stick with it will find that the pacing enhances the depth of the story, allowing the reader to fully immerse in the psychological and physical challenges Mara faces. Each chapter peels back another layer of the societal collapse and human psyche, linked beautifully with flashbacks that enrich the present narrative.

Apart from the gripping narrative and rich setting, Frame succeeds in sparking a philosophical conversation about morality in a lawless world. Mara's encounters with other survivors, who range from benevolent to brutally opportunistic, prompt a reflection on what we owe to each other as humans. The author does not shy away from the harrowing decisions Mara must make; decisions that explore the moral grey areas that often accompany survival. These dilemmas are presented with such genuine emotion and ethical complexity that readers may find themselves questioning what they would do in Mara’s place.

Letty Frame also subtly interweaves themes of environmental stewardship and societal inequality into the narrative. Through flashbacks and the juxtaposition of pre-and post-collapse lives, she explores how disregard for the environment and the disparity between different social strata contributed to the world’s downfall. This adds a layer of critical relevance to the story, urging readers to reflect on current global issues through the guise of fiction.

One of the most powerful elements of Survival is Hard is the character development. Mara’s evolution from a carefree teenager to a wise, albeit weary, survivor is compelling and well-crafted. Supporting characters are equally well-developed, each adding depth and perspective to the narrative theme of survival. Their interactions and conflicts drive home the book's central thesis: that in the face of overwhelming adversity, human connection is both our greatest challenge and our most enduring hope.

In conclusion, Survival is Hard is a profoundly moving novel that offers more than just a story of survival. It serves as a mirror held up to our current society, filled with both a warning and a glimmer of hope. Letty Frame masterfully uses her narrative to challenge the reader's perceptions of morality, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. This book is recommended for those who enjoy deep, thought-provoking narratives that not only entertain but also invite introspection and discussion. Frame’s novel is a brilliant addition to the canon of speculative fiction, a poignant reminder that even in the darkest times, the human spirit can shine brightly.