REAMDE

[en_ki]

For those who are the type to read it, but haven't read it yet: if you liked Cryptonomicon, you'll like REAMDE. Stephenson is back to writing what I used to think of as The Stephenson Novel (version n), but he's matured a bit, as you'd figure after like 10 years. I liked it, but would be happy to give my hardcover to the next person who wants it

Comments

[42itous]

Huh. I read the first few pages and (thanks, Chekhov!) decided I didn't want to read more. But after reading this, I'm thinking maybe I should give it another chance. I do love absurd coincidences!

[en_ki]

I should emphasize that the Chekov's Guns in this story are, in fact, rarely guns, and the guns are rarely Chekov's.

[42itous]

Ah! Um, okay. If I read it, will that make more sense?

[en_ki]

I just mean a Significant Object is introduced and later used, so if you see an object described, you can usually infer upcoming Plot Events.

(It's Chekhov's Gun, apparently.)

[en_ki]

It has a whole lot in common with Snow Crash, but is set in a realistic present and rather less balls-out.

[merle_]

Hmm. Dunno. I wasn't big on Cryptonomicon even though I went to a reading and signing. He's not bad, just strikes me as similar to modern-day George Martin who writes longer books for the page count.

[en_ki]

Well, they certainly do suffer from Giant Book Syndrome, but I kinda like a book that takes me longer than a couple days' commute to read. It's thought-provoking that you put Martin and Stephenson in the same box---I wouldn't have (I read them for what feel like very different reasons), but I can kinda see it.

[merle_]

That is interesting. I'm more used to their older stories, and perhaps those had more in common? Martin is currently dark fantasy while Stevenson is only slightly dark cyber. Neither really shoots for the happy-go-lucky-girl-and-boy-get-it-on scenario.

I too prefer books that take more than a few days to read, although it severely hampers my bragging skills about how I read at least a book a day. Then again, doubling up with non-fiction and tech books and having five open books makes some of the Ericson books feel like lodestones around my neck.

[inflectionpoint]

I want to borrow it! Ibsubmit my paper for Drud Development class on next Thursday. After that I can read and exercise!

[en_ki]

Hm, ask me about this Wednesday morning (and for extra points, remind me between 7PM tonight and 7AM Wednesday to put it in the car).

[hitchhiker]

i disagree. cryptonomicon is my second-favourite stephenson book (second only to 'the diamond age'), but reamde simply had far too many gun battles and far too little time spent on what was shaping up to be a truly fascinating virtual reality and associated company.