Books matching: altering reality
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- #1
Save:A short, clever, and thoughtful classic that bends reality and your mind - perfect for fans of idea-driven sci-fi and those who wonder, 'What if my dreams could change the world?'
In 'The Lathe of Heaven', George Orr discovers that his dreams have the power to alter reality. Sent to a psychiatrist, Dr. Haber, George becomes the subject of an experiment where his dreams are manipulated to reshape the world. However, the unintended consequences of George's dreams lead to a series of ever-changing realities, challenging the fabric of existence itself. Ursula K. Le Guin masterfully delves into themes of power, self-destructiveness, and the nature of reality in this eerie and prescient science fiction novel set in a dystopian Portland, Oregon.
Current-borne, wave-flung, tugged hugely by the whole might of ocean, the jellyfish drifts in the tidal abyss. The light shines through it, and the dark enters it. Borne, flung, tugged from anywhere t...1971•188 pages - #2
Save:Emotional, twisty, and rewarding - especially for series fans - "Time Patrol" is a thoughtful ride through military sci-fi and time travel. Not for everyone, but a standout if you’re willing to dive deep and follow the series in order!
'Time Patrol' in the series 'Area 51: The Nightstalkers' by author Bob Mayer is a military science fiction novel that delves into time travel and alternate realities. The story follows The Nightstalkers as they navigate through a changed world, dealing with new threats and challenges brought about by time shifts. The plot is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers engaged with a mix of action, suspense, and thought-provoking concepts like the consequences of choices and the impact of time travel on individuals and the world. Mayer's writing style is praised for its depth, well-developed characters, and seamless integration of different timelines and series, making the book a gripping and satisfying read for fans of the genre.
“The problem is, it’s been speculated the U.S. had a strong hand in the coup. It’s certain Kissinger was not a fan of President Allende. Certain corporate interests, primarily ITT, were worried that A...February 2015•302 pages
(Also, see 7 recommendations for the series Area 51: The Nightstalkers ) - #3
Save:'The Unteleported Man' by Philip K. Dick follows the story of Rachmael ben Applebaum, the heir to a bankrupt company involved in teleporting colonists to other planets. Applebaum becomes suspicious of the teleportation scheme and hires a private security firm to investigate. The plot unfolds in an overcrowded future Earth of 2014, where a monopolistic corporation teleports colonists to a distant planet, creating a one-way trip scenario. explores themes of corporate control, altered reality, and unanswered questions as the protagonist delves into the mystery behind the scheme.
Over Rachmael ben Applebaum's head floated a creditor jet-balloon, and from within its articulation-circuit a flat but handsome, masculine — artificial, however — voice boomed, magnified so that not o...1964•202 pages - #4
Save:A boldly original, boundary-pushing short story collection that's as fascinating as it is provocative. If you enjoy fiction that makes you a little uncomfortable while questioning what 'normal' really means, dive in - otherwise, proceed with caution!
'Life Ceremony' by Sayaka Murata is a collection of twelve short stories that are harsh, unsettling, disturbing, and sometimes humorous. The stories range from surreal to speculative to whimsical to bizarre, reflecting human nature and societal norms while focusing on characters who defy societal norms and do not fit into the mold established by contemporary society. Murata's writing style is bold, aggressive, and thought-provoking, attacking traditions, systems, and hierarchies while making a sharp analysis of social rules, contemporary people's situations, and women's identities.
It was a holiday, and I was enjoying chatting with two girlfriends from university days over afternoon tea. Through the window, the gray office buildings of the business district sat beneath a cloudle...July 2022•264 pages - #5
Save:Square³ is a brisk, smart sci-fi horror treat - full of action, atmosphere, and clever ideas. It’s not perfect, but it’s perfect for a quick, thrilling escape.
'Square3' by Mira Grant follows the story of sisters Susan and Katharine Black who are separated after an extradimensional incursion. Susan works for the government studying the altered physics of quarantined zones where monsters break through, while Katharine is believed to be among the altered humans within the zone. The plot unfolds with a mix of otherworldly elements, giant monsters, and a post-pandemic setting that imagines the world in fascinating and terrible ways. The story is centered on the relationship between the two sisters and the hope of reuniting in the midst of a heavily guarded and mysterious environment.
December 2021•128 pages - #6
Save:Thought-provoking and full of heart, "Game Changer" is a timely jump through parallel universes that asks big questions, though it might not resonate with everyone. Worth a read for the journey and the conversations it sparks.
'Game Changer' by Neal Shusterman follows the story of Ash, a high school football player who gains the ability to shift small events in the past, resulting in drastic changes in modern reality. As Ash navigates through different versions of his life, readers are taken on a journey to explore themes of privilege, identity, and the consequences of altering reality. Through each shift, the book delves into issues of racism, sexism, and other forms of hatred, offering a thought-provoking exploration of societal norms and personal growth. The writing style presents a speculative and insightful narrative that challenges readers to view the world through different perspectives, creating a gripping and engaging storyline.
You’ll say I’ve lost my mind, or that I’ve suffered one too many concussions. Or maybe you’ll convince yourself that I’m conning you, and that you’re the butt of some elaborate practical joke. That’s...February 2021 - #7
Save:A wild, eerie romp through shifting realities that showcases early Philip K. Dick - eccentric, imaginative, and maybe a touch rough around the edges. Not his best, but definitely a fun, trippy ride for fans of weird fiction.
The Cosmic Puppets by Philip K. Dick is a novel that delves into the theme of reality bending and cosmic warfare within a small town setting. The story follows Ted Barton as he returns to his hometown, only to discover that everything he remembers has changed, including his own death at a young age. As Ted tries to uncover the mysteries behind the town's transformation, he becomes embroiled in a battle between forces of creation and destruction, leading to a cosmic struggle of epic proportions. The book combines elements of fantasy and science fiction, exploring deep cosmological and theological complexities while keeping the reader gripped with uncertainty and unease.
PETER TRILLING WATCHED quietly as the other children played in the dust by the side of the porch. They were intent on their game. Mary was carefully kneading and shaping brown lumps of clay into vague...1957•154 pages - #8
Save:A bold, gorgeously written fantasy that doesn't shy from complex themes - an instant classic for anyone who likes to read with their brain (and heart) fully engaged.
In 'The Golden Compass,' readers are transported to a parallel universe where each human has an animal daemon companion, a physical representation of their soul. The story follows young Lyra Belacqua on a quest to uncover the mystery behind the missing children, the concept of Dust, and the oppressive forces at play in her world. The narrative is filled with intricate world-building, complex characters like armored bears and witches, and a blend of fantasy elements that keep readers engaged and curious about the unfolding adventure.
Philip Pullman's writing style in 'The Golden Compass' is praised for its ability to address serious issues without being preachy, creating a compelling and imaginative story that resonates with both young adult and adult readers. The book delves into themes of faith, destiny, and the power of individual conscience, all set against a backdrop of suspense, mystery, and parallel universes, making it a captivating read that challenges the traditional boundaries of YA fantasy literature.
Lyra and her dæmon moved through the darkening hall, taking care to keep to one side, out of sight of the kitchen. The three great tables that ran the length of the hall were laid already, the silver...1995•408 pages - #9
Save:A thought-provoking, galaxy-spanning hard sci-fi epic - brilliant for concept-hunters, less so if you want engaging characters or a feel-good adventure.
'Manifold: Space' by Stephen Baxter is a science fiction novel that explores the Fermi Paradox through the eyes of characters like Reid Malenfant who investigate the existence of aliens near Earth. The book delves into questions about the purpose of intelligent life after billions of years of evolution, the life expectancy of space-faring species, and the adaptations of humans and non-carbon-based life forms in various locations throughout the universe. The plot takes readers on a mind-stretching journey full of unique and fascinating ways in which Baxter's characters search for answers to profound questions regarding the existence of sentient life in the universe.
The narrative of 'Manifold: Space' is a blend of hard science fiction and fantastical elements, offering an exploration of the future of humankind in a world with extraterrestrial life. Baxter's visionary concepts and ideas, although occasionally slow-paced, create a captivating story that challenges readers to ponder the Fermi Paradox and the potential implications of encountering advanced alien races. The book presents a thought-provoking scenario that tackles themes of evolution, physics, and the vastness of space, ultimately providing answers that are both chilling and hopeful.
A sense of body, briefly. Spread-eagled against the sail’s gauzy netting. Clinging by fingers and toes, monkey digits, here at the center of the Galaxy. A metaphor, of course, an illusion to comfort h... - #10
Save:A dazzling, cerebral sci-fi thriller with mind-bending ideas and vivid world-building - but it demands patience and willingness to dive into the deep end. Longtime Gibson fans and lovers of ambitious, challenging futuristic fiction will be rewarded; casual readers may want to try a sample first.
'The Peripheral' by William Gibson is a science fiction novel that explores a near future and a future 70 years ahead, where characters can interact with both time frames through technology. The story involves time travel, virtual presences, and altering timelines, all while navigating through a world dominated by corporate and political greed. Gibson's writing style is described as compelling, vivid, and challenging, requiring readers to work to understand the complex situations and terminology introduced in the narrative.
They didn’t think Flynne’s brother had PTSD, but that sometimes the haptics glitched him. They said it was like phantom limb, ghosts of the tattoos he’d worn in the war, put there to tell him when to...October 2014•517 pages
