The Big Book of Science Fiction

Jeff VanderMeer

Save:

'The Big Book of Science Fiction' edited by Ann and Jeff VanderMeer is a massive anthology with almost 1200 pages containing over 50 stories from authors around the world. The stories range over more than a century and cover a wide array of emotional concepts and themes that may seem alien to readers. The book showcases international authors expressing unique perspectives on popular sci-fi themes, providing a glimpse into sci-fi from different cultures and challenging readers to think in new ways.

The anthology includes stories that inspire a range of emotions, from shudders of revulsion to moments of inspiration. While some readers found the stories challenging and emotionally weird, others appreciated the breadth of conceptualization and the opportunity to explore how far the science fiction genre has evolved over the years. Despite the mixed reactions to the stories, readers praised the VanderMeers' meticulous research and insightful introductions for each author and story.

Characters:

The characters in the stories range from complex to underdeveloped, often serving as vehicles for larger themes more than as focal points themselves.

Writing/Prose:

The prose and writing style vary widely, showcasing both crisp and lyrical elements, with a strong emphasis on originality and thematic explorations.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot encompasses a diverse selection of stories from various decades and lesser-known authors, featuring some surreal and experimental works that may not cater to all readers.

Setting:

The settings in the anthology span a wide array of times and places, from futuristic scenarios to more abstract thematic landscapes.

Pacing:

The pacing varies widely across the anthology, with some stories offering quick reads while others require more contemplation.

The first moment I laid eyes on Martell I took a great dislike to the man. There sprang up between us an antagonism that as far as he was concerned might have remained passive, but which circumstances...

Notes:

The anthology includes almost 1200 pages and features over 50 stories spanning more than a century.

It aims to highlight the diversity of science fiction by including underrepresented authors.

The collection includes works from recognized grandmasters and early female feminist writers.

The stories cover various subgenres and often delve into surreal or weird fiction.

The editors, Ann and Jeff VanderMeer, provide detailed introductions for each author and story to enhance the reader's experience.

Readers can skip stories they don't like since they are mostly standalone pieces.

The book has been described as a significant exploration of international science fiction.

Some stories challenge emotional and philosophical concepts that may feel alien to readers.

Many stories have been written by Hugo and Nebula prize-winning authors.

It's recommended for those seeking a broad, diverse selection of science fiction narratives.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings may include themes of violence, gender identity struggles, alien encounters, and societal critique, which could be unsettling to some readers.

From The Publisher:

Quite possibly the greatestscience fiction collection of all time- past, present and future. What if life was neverending? What if you could change your body to adapt to an alien ecology?

What if the pope were a robot? Spanning galaxies and millennia, this must-have anthology showcases classic contributions from H. G. Wells, Arthur C. Clarke, Octavia E. Butler, and Kurt Vonnegut, alongside a century of the eccentrics, rebels, and visionaries who have inspired generations of readers.

Within its pages, you'll find beloved worlds of space opera, hard SF, cyberpunk, the New Wave, and more. Learn about the secret history of science fiction, from titans of literature who also wrote SF to less well-known authors from more than twenty-five countries, some never before translated into English.

In The Big Book of Science Fiction, literary power couple Ann and Jeff VanderMeer transport readers from Mars to Mechanopolis, planet Earth to parts unknown. Immerse yourself in the genre that predicted electric cars, space tourism, and smartphones.

Sit back, buckle up, and dial in the coordinates, as this stellar anthology has got worlds within worlds.

Including:

. Legendary tales from Isaac Asimov and Ursula K. Le Guin

.

An unearthed sci-fi story from W. E. B. Du Bois

. The first publication in twenty years of the work of cybernetic visionary David R. Bunch

. A rare and brilliant novella by Chinese international sensation Cixin Liu

Plus:

. Aliens!

. Space battles!

. Robots!

.

Technology gone wrong!

. Technology gone right!"

Reader Stats (3):

Want To Read (2)
Not Interested (1)

What can you read after
The Big Book of Science Fiction?

See the list (36 books)

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.