Liu Cixinis a Chinese sci-fi writer who has found a global audience over the last decade and a half.
This hard sci-fi novel is a prequel toThe Three-Body Problem.
The story begins when Chen witnesses his parents' death by a mysterious phenomenon known as ball lightning.
Image by Federico Napoli
This traumatic event propels him into a lifelong quest to understand this elusive and destructive force.
As a result,Ball Lightninghas been praised as his most realistic work, hewing close to actual science.
Both species believe they are the planet’s supreme race, and both believe God is on their side.
7’Devourer' (2002)
Rating: 3.92/5
“The Devourer approaches!
“Devoureris a sci-fi graphic novel featuring illustrations byMalice Bathory.
It’s a tale of first contact and survival.
As the Devourer approaches Earth, humanity is faced with an existential threat.
The aliens intend to extract the planet’s resources while reducing humanity to the status of cattle.
Finally, the gritty, somber, gorgeous visuals spice up Liu’s writing and hold it all together.
6’Taking Care of God' (2012)
Rating: 3.97/5
“We are God.
like, considering that we created this world, would you give us a bit of food?
This revelation challenges the very foundation of human history and religion.
This is a smart premise that Liu engages with complexly, adding multiple layers to the tale.
The writing is fittingly sharp and intentional, blending comedy and drama.
For example, there are a lot of funny and touching interactions between the children and the aliens.
The protagonist, a young girl named Zihan from a rural village, is particularly likable and memorable.
Emptiness is a bang out of existence.”
This interspecies contact soon causes societal division and moral dilemmas.
The book was widely acclaimed on release, becoming the first Asian novel to win the prestigious Hugo Award.
Fans praised its meticulous research and deep dives into topics ranging from quantum mechanics to artificial intelligence.
It has been praised by everyone fromGeorge R.R.
We are all always at the foot.”
Mountain-climbing is a part of their everyday life and key to survival.
Nevertheless, Mountain’s quickness also means there’s less of an opportunity cost to giving it a try.
The hard sci-fi concepts are also even more engaging.
No matter where you sail, ultimately, you must turn toward it.”
This book is dense, clocking in at almost 600 pages and bursting at the seams with ideas.
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