February Books 16) Matter

[nwhyte]

16) Matter, by Iain M. Banks

The latest Culture novel by Banks; speaking in Brussels a couple of weeks ago, he said that he felt he is mellowing as he gets older, and the book is strikingly domestic - I can't think of another Culture book which has such a focus on family. Here we follow the tale of three royal siblings - the sister who ran away from

Comments

[blue_condition]

In some ways the concentration on family and its mysteries reminded me of mainstream books like The Crow Road, Whit and The Steep Approach to Garbadale. It is definitely a more humane book than most of the other Culture novels, but no less readable.

[nickbarnes]

On my list. See also Gareth's take.

[fjm]

Against a Dark Background strives for the same family emphasis, but doesn't bring it off.

[pgmcc]

I'm in the process of reading (and enjoying) Matter so I won't read your posting just yet. It has occurred to me, however, that when I think of your work, and I think of Iain's Culture novels, it becomes clear that you must be a member of Contact, if not Special Circumstances.

You must show me some the cool stuff the Culture technology can do when we next meet. We could have a special domonstration session for you at P-Con.

[outerego]

I'm just finishing "Matter" and it is a cracking read but I do have one criticism...
...he does use the phrase "sort of" a bit too much to describe things!

I'm looking forward to seeing him and Ken Macleod at the "AyeWrite" festival in a couple of weeks.