There are many aspects of Torch which may be of concern to some readers or parents. First, there is the fact that the world has been destroyed by a nuclear war. Second, there are the children wandering around the world all alone with no adult supervision; and, third, the loss of basic human kindness as we know it. But perhaps the biggest concern is the abuse and use of athletes.

Today, we live in a society where athletes are among the highest paid people; where college scholarships are "earned" based on athletic performance; where advanced degrees can be awarded to athletes for serving four to five years at an institution; and where professional athletes are held in the highest esteem, almost godlike, despite bad morals and attitudes.

Torch takes place after a nuclear war that has destroyed most of the memory and knowledge that once existed...