Who Would Like This Book:
If you love vintage sci-fi and stories about big ideas, "Man Plus" is a must-read! Frederik Pohl weaves together future-tech, political intrigue, and dark humor, all set against a backdrop of 1970s pessimism. The story digs into what it means to be human when technology pushes the boundaries. Fans of cyberpunk, speculative tech, and the psychological journey of becoming something more (or less) than human will feel right at home. There’s even a cool twist on artificial intelligence that was ahead of its time!
Who May Not Like This Book:
If you prefer light-hearted adventure or tightly paced action, this book might not win you over. Some readers find it dated, especially in its depiction of gender roles and its gloomy outlook. The writing style, while clever and at times satirical, can also feel a bit flat or slow for those not into 70s sci-fi vibes. If detailed world-building or character-driven plots aren’t your thing, you might not connect with this story.
About:
"Man Plus" by Frederik Pohl is a science fiction novel that explores the concept of transforming a man into a cyborg to survive on Mars. The story delves into themes of the limitations of humanity, political paranoia, and the manipulation of human politics. Pohl's writing style is described as chatty, conversational, and occasionally somber, with a touch of dark humor and satirical elements. The novel incorporates technical details seamlessly into the story, creating a world that feels prescient and thought-provoking.
Genres:
Tropes/Plot Devices:
Topics:
Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
The book contains elements of horror related to transformation, themes of body horror, political and environmental distress, and misogyny.
From The Publisher:
The Nebula Award-winning masterwork by the author of Gateway
In the not-too-distant future, a desperate war for natural resources threatens to bring civilization to a crashing halt. Nuclear warships from around the globe begin positioning themselves as the American government works feverishly to complete a massive project to colonize Mars. Former astronaut Roger Torraway has agreed to be transformed by the latest advances in biological and cybernetic science into something new, a being that can survive the rigors of Mars before it is terraformed. Becoming Man Plus will allow him to be the linchpin in opening the new Martian frontier…but not without challenging his humanity as no man has ever been challenged before.
A bestselling, Nebula Award-winning novel when first published more than thirty years ago, this book is now more relevant than ever, as the battle between corporate interests and those who seek to save Earth's natural resources steadily escalates. The question of where man will go once the world's food, water, and oil have run out has yet to be answered. Man Plus by Frederick Pohl is a brilliantly imagined, compelling possible scenario that has enthralled countless readers.
Ratings (1)
Loved It (1) |
Reader Stats (5):
Read It (1) | |
Want To Read (3) | |
Not Interested (1) |
What can you read after
Man Plus?
About the Author:
Multiple Hugo and Nebula award-winner FREDERIK POHL was named a Grand Master by the Science Fiction Writers of America. Pohl has also been an award-winning collaborator and editor of magazines and anthologies. Most recently he won yet another Hugo Award for his blog, "www.thewaythefutureblogs.com." He and his wife, editor and academic Elizabeth Anne Hull, live outside of Chicago.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.
