Books matching: personhood
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- #1
Save:The Cassini Division by Ken MacLeod is a sci-fi novel set in a future where 30 billion people live in an anarcho-communist society protected by a group called the Cassini Division. The story follows the leader of the division, Ellen May Ngwethu, as she faces a threat from post-humans and navigates political complexities. The book explores themes of socialism, capitalism, post-humanism, and philosophical debates, all set against a backdrop of space adventures and futuristic technology.
The writing style of The Cassini Division is described as fast-paced, engaging, and imaginative. The book features a mix of action, humor, political commentary, and philosophical musings. The plot involves a diverse cast of characters, including a black female protagonist, and delves into complex ideas such as post-human existence, socialist anarchy, and the ethics of artificial intelligence.
- #2
Save:'Mem' by Bethany C. Morrow is a historical speculative fiction novel set in Montreal in the early 1900s. The story follows Dolores Extract 1, a Mem created by the memory of a 19-year-old girl named Dolores. Unlike other mems, Dolores Extract 1 is unique in that she can create her own memories and experiences. The book explores themes of identity, memory, and what it means to be human, with a writing style that intricately weaves past memories with present experiences, mimicking the stream of consciousness.
I received the telegram a week before I approached the receptionist’s desk. A lovely girl was stationed there—a student, no doubt. What they call an undergraduate, which means she’s naive. She might h... - #3
Save:'Ancillary Mercy' by Ann Leckie is the final installment in the 'Imperial Radch' series, focusing on Breq, a former AI of a destroyed ship named Justice of Toren. The plot delves into complex system politics, AI rights, intricate character relationships, and a dramatic conflict with an all-powerful ruler. Leckie's writing style weaves a compelling narrative filled with multi-dimensional characters, intricate world-building, and engaging political intrigue, making the series a drama of manners with thought-provoking themes on justice and identity.
Lieutenant Ekalu was on watch. Indignant about something. A little angry, even. Before her the wall displayed a view of Athoek Station, the ships surrounding it. The dome over its gardens barely visib...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Imperial Radch ) - #4
Save:'And What Can We Offer You Tonight' by Premee Mohamed is a novella set in a murky, dystopian future where class divisions, indentured servitude, and a power echelon control society. The story follows a courtesan, exploring themes of humanity, personhood, and freedom through characters involved in sex work. The writing style is described as lyrical and flourishing, painting a picture of a world that feels both haunting and strangely familiar, like a dream that leaves a lasting impression.
- #5
Save:Set in an alternative future world devastated by plague and famine, 'He, She and It' explores the themes of personhood within a community, the use of individuals as tools by corporations, and the moral dilemmas that arise. The book intertwines the stories of a 1600s 'cyborg' and a character named Yod in the present day, providing a glimpse into Jewish culture, intellectual scholarship, and mystical practices. The narrative delves into love, faith, societal commentary, and moral lessons, creating a complex and thought-provoking storyline.
In a near-future setting, the book presents a world affected by climate change, corporate control, and societal divides. Through parallel storylines set in Prague in the 1600s and a dystopian future, the novel explores themes of human nature, feminism, political power, and the role of women in different time periods. 'He, She and It' offers a blend of genres including romance, sci-fi, historical fiction, and feminist literature, weaving together multiple narratives to provide a rich and engaging reading experience.
Josh, Shira’s ex-husband, sat immediately in front of her in the Hall of Domestic Justice as they faced the view screen, awaiting the verdict on the custody of Ari, their son. A bead of sweat slid dow... - #6
Save:In the near future America depicted in 'Red Clocks' by Leni Zumas, the Personhood Amendment has granted legal rights to unborn embryos, outlawing abortion and IVF, while the Every Child Needs Two Act prevents unmarried people from adopting. The novel follows the lives of five women, each navigating the harsh realities of a society where draconian laws have been passed, leading to a complex web of struggles and connections among them. The writing style is described as artfully choppy and stylized, with distinct voices for each character, creating a dark, dreamy, and beautiful narrative that reimagines a United States where abortion is once again illegal and criminalized.
In a room for women whose bodies are broken, Eivør Mínervudottír’s biographer waits her turn. She wears sweatpants, is white skinned and freckle cheeked, not young, not old. Before she is called to cl... - #7
Save:In 'Feet of Clay' by Terry Pratchett, the City Watch of Ankh Morpork, led by Commander Vimes, is faced with a series of mysterious murders, poisonings, and golems behaving strangely. The plot delves into the themes of freedom, discrimination, and the question of what constitutes a living being, all while maintaining a humorous and engaging writing style that keeps readers entertained. With a mix of comedy, satire, and a police procedural mystery, the book explores complex societal issues in a fantastical setting.
The narrative follows the City Watch as they investigate the murders, navigate political intrigue, and grapple with the idea of golem emancipation. Pratchett weaves together multiple story threads, including the poisoning of Lord Vetinari, the golems' desire for freedom, and the search for a new king, all while offering thought-provoking commentary on oppression, prejudice, and governance. Through a blend of humor and deeper philosophical questions, 'Feet of Clay' presents a compelling and lighthearted tale that challenges readers to reflect on real-world issues within a whimsical fantasy setting.
But he thought afterwards that there had been shapes out there, just beyond the light spilling out into the road. A lot of shapes, watching him carefully. He thought maybe there'd been very faint poin...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Discworld ) - #8
Save:'Machine' by Elizabeth Bear is a space opera set in a complex future with colorful aliens, exploring emotional space and societal issues. The plot revolves around a doctor, Brooklynn Jenns, navigating a dystopian society while dealing with medical mysteries and ethical dilemmas. The narrative unfolds through Lynn's point of view, revealing a universe filled with advanced technology, intricate world-building, and engaging mysteries, such as the discovery of a derelict generation ship and the ethical implications of rightminding procedures. The writing style combines elements of introspection, action, and exploration, creating a unique blend of character-driven storytelling and intricate plot development.
I wasn’t only staring into bottomless space. I was aiming: aiming at a target that wheeled sickeningly less than a klick away. My own perch was also revolving around a central core, simulating a half ...
(Also, see 79 recommendations for the series White Space ) - #9
Save:'The A.I. Who Loved Me' by Alyssa Cole is a sci-fi romance novella that explores the relationship between Trinity, a Black data analyst recovering from PTSD, and Li Wei, a biosynthetic human posing as the nephew of Trinity's neighbor. Set in a dark future controlled by an organization called Hive, the story delves into themes of personhood, identity, memory, and choice. The plot unfolds with a mix of mystery, humor, and pointed commentary, highlighting the interactions between the characters and the development of the romance amidst a complex background.
The writing style of Alyssa Cole in 'The A.I. Who Loved Me' is described as zippy, gripping, and immersive, with emotional punches packed into many sentences. The novella touches on the essence of what it means to be human, similar to the exploration in 'Blade Runner,' while focusing on a beautifully written romance that captivates readers with its quirks, originality, and depth of character development.
Trinity: (sings commercial jingle) FOUR SCOOOORE!! (laughs) That song really gets stuck in your head, huh? I have the last model, the Washington, but sometimes I like doing things the old-fashioned wa... - #10
Save:In 'Mindscan', Sawyer delves into the ethical implications of transferring consciousness into synthetic bodies, exploring the impact on personal identity, legal rights, and societal reactions. The book weaves a complex narrative around philosophical questions of consciousness and individuality, set in a future where advancements in technology allow for such mind uploads. The storyline follows characters like Jake and Karen as they navigate the consequences and challenges of undergoing the transfer process, leading to a courtroom drama that questions the very essence of life and personhood.
Sawyer's writing style in 'Mindscan' is characterized by his ability to blend scientific concepts with human drama, creating a thought-provoking narrative that engages readers on multiple levels. Through his exploration of futuristic technologies and their implications on society, Sawyer raises profound questions about consciousness, identity, and the nature of existence, inviting readers to ponder complex ideas in an accessible and compelling manner.
