summer sci-fi

“Science fiction isn’t useful because it’s predictive. It’s useful because it reframes our perspective on the world. Like international travel or meditation, it creates space for us to question our assumptions.” —Eliot Peper

“I define science fiction as the art of the possible. Fantasy is the art of the impossible. Science fiction, again, is the history of ideas, and they’re always ideas that work themselves out and become real and happen in the world.” —Ray Bradbury

3 Reasons Why You Should Read Science Fiction:
1. SF Extrapolates Current Technology
2. SF Highlights Societal and Cultural Changes
3. (The Best) SF Helps Solve Big Problems
—Richard MacManus

I read a lot of non-fiction and post book reviews here. When I get a chance, I read fiction, mostly science fiction. Here are some recommended reads from the last year.

The Three Body Problem by Cixin Liu

The first book of a trilogy out of China. This is a refreshing read and a change from a lot of science fiction. What happens when aliens discover us? I am currently reading the next book, The Dark Forest.

Autonomous by Annalee Newitz

A great fast-paced read of a future where corporations rule and a pirate runs her own submarine to get pharmaceuticals to those who need them.

Walkaway by Cory Doctorow

A near future where you have a choice to conform or walk away, but at a price.

Change Agent by Daniel Suarez

Gene editing goes rogue in this future where your identity can be changed against your will. Is this the future of CRISPR?

The Peripheral by William Gibson

Two dystopic future worlds get connected through peripherals — cyborg avatars.

Photo: NASA