The Nameless Planet - Book Reviews

Neuromancer - William Gibson

I remember reading this book in high school - and being quite interested by it, since I was just a fledgling computer geek. I re-read this novel recently for an SF course at school, and found myself disappointed. So what am I to do? I think seeing it in a new perspective should be able to help me judge it correctly. First of all, I have to give this book credit for starting the cyberpunk trend that many authors have tried to copy. However, being the "first" doesn't necessarily mean that it is the best (see my review of Magician). The book tends to be very complicated most of the time (why? to make the reader feel stupid?). Gibson uses his own brand of lingo and catchphrases, and the plot doubles over onto itself making things very confusing until the last part of the novel. I found myself getting frustrated in the middle of the book, when I realized all of the "technospeak" was just used to fill the pages where nothing is happening. I enjoyed the last half, when the resolution/action (finally) happened, but the ending was very weak. However, Gibson definitely shines in his descriptions of drug use and while under the influence. He describes scenery quite well, and uses many metahphors that are unconventional (The first line in the book: "The sky was the color of a TV tuned to a dead channel..."). The book resebles a comic book or typical hollywood movie: lots of flash, and fast paced in some points where it doesn't have to be. If you're into that sort of thing, by all means read it. Unfortunately I really can't give this book the praises that so many people are eager to dish out. Rating ** 1/2 (Added 1999.11.15)

Replay - Ken Grimwood

I heard this book was good. I looked for it everywhere, and since I didn't see it at bookstores I assumed it was out of print. I found about 4 copies at a local used bookstore and snatched one up. That night, I picked it up...and did not stop reading until I was done. What a book. Although it is light reading (some may consider it "fluff") I found it to be a well written novel. Most people (myself included) are facinated with the concept of repeating parts of their lives, knowing what they know now. That is the exact premise of the book. Jeff Winston dies of a heart attack at 44, and then awakens 25 years earlier in college. When he reaches 44 again, he dies and reawakens. Jeff realizes he is a "replayer" and must live his life over and over again. This book follows the different paths we all have thought about (what would have happened to my life if I had done this?) and finding meaning to life. Jeff finds a fellow replayer and make plans to meet every time they are "reborn". Its a great story filled with real, HUMAN characters. This book kept me thinking about it, long after I had read it. What else can I say without drifting off into exaggerated praise? Just read it for yourself, and enjoy the ride. Rating: **** (Added 1999.06.11)