Books Like...
'Down and Out in the Magic Kingdom' by Cory Doctorow is a futuristic novel set in a world where death has been conquered, and people can back up their consciousness. The story revolves around a society where wealth is measured by respect, and Disney World is a central location. The plot involves a murder mystery and a battle for ownership of different rides in the theme park, all set in a unique milieu where the internet and subculture play significant roles. Doctorow's writing style is described as futuristic, exploring a world where want has been eradicated, and people interact based on a reputation system called 'Whuffie.'
If you liked Down and Out in the Magic Kingdom, here are the top 61 books to read next:
- #1
'Eastern Standard Tribe' by Cory Doctorow is a near-future novel that explores the concept of tribes based on time zones, where individuals align themselves with people from different time zones for work and social interactions. The main character, Art Berry, works as an industrial saboteur for the Eastern Standard Tribe while living in London. The story delves into Art's involvement in undermining companies and the complications that arise when he meets Linda after a car accident. The writing style is described as full of interesting ideas, easy to read, and very plausible, reminiscent of classic Doctorow with a focus on future technologies and societal shifts.
- #2
In "Looking Backward: 2000-1887" by Edward Bellamy, the protagonist, Julian West, falls into a hypnotic sleep in 1887 and wakes up in the year 2000. He finds himself in a socialist utopia where all social hierarchies and injustices have been abolished. Through dialogue with the people of the future, Julian learns about the reformed society and the advancements made over the past century. The book serves as a utopian manifesto wrapped in a thinly plotted Victorian romance novel, providing a glimpse into a potential future society and reflecting Bellamy's social beliefs.
I FIRST saw the light in the city of Boston in the year 1857. “What!” you say, “eighteen fifty-seven? That is an odd slip. He means nineteen fifty-seven, of course.” I beg pardon, but there is no mist... - #3
'Pacific Edge' by Kim Stanley Robinson is a utopian novel set in a future California where ecological awareness is deeply ingrained in everyday life. The story revolves around a small town reshaped by an anti-corporatist revolution, where residents lead pastoral lives focusing on artisanal occupations and municipal volunteer labor. Despite the idyllic setting, there are underlying tensions as multinational corporate forces threaten the peaceful coexistence of the community. Through multiple protagonists, the author explores themes of sustainable technology, political activism, and societal change, offering a prescient view of a future world shaped by environmental concerns and global consciousness.
The narrative of 'Pacific Edge' is characterized by detailed town planning discussions, internal dialogues of characters, and a reflective tone on the potential future of California. Kim Stanley Robinson weaves together a story that is both optimistic and thought-provoking, presenting a cooperative utopia while also acknowledging the challenges and conflicts that arise in a society striving for sustainability and social harmony.
The air was cool, and smelled of sage. It had the clarity that comes to southern California only after a Santa Ana wind has blown all haze and history out to sea—air like telescopic glass, so that the...
(Also, see 28 recommendations for the series Three Californias Triptych ) - #4
In "Jennifer Government" by Max Barry, the story is set in an alternate present where corporations wield immense power, influencing every aspect of society. The plot revolves around a world where taxes are illegal, employees take on the surnames of the companies they work for, and the government is reduced to a figurehead, unable to challenge the dominance of corporate entities. The narrative follows a cast of characters as they navigate a dystopian society where capitalism reigns supreme, exploring themes of consumerism, corporate greed, and the consequences of a world driven by profit.
The writing style of the book is described as satirical and fast-paced, offering a clever and entertaining look at a future where big businesses control the world. The author, Max Barry, creates a believable and thought-provoking world that delves into the darker aspects of human nature, all while maintaining a sense of humor and intrigue throughout the narrative.
Hack first heard about Jennifer Government at the water-cooler. He was only there because the one on his floor was out; Legal was going to come down on Nature's Springs like a ton of shit, you could b... - #5
'Funland' by Richard Laymon is a horror novel set in a small coastal town with an amusement park called Funland. The story revolves around a group of local teens who take it upon themselves to deal with the homeless population surrounding the town's attraction. However, their vigilante actions escalate, leading to a series of bloody and thrilling events. explores themes of vigilantism, the dark side of both the teens and the homeless, and the sinister secrets lurking within the amusement park. Richard Laymon's writing style in 'Funland' is characterized by detailed descriptions, complex character development, and a blend of horror and suspense that keeps readers engaged till the end.
He came out of the shadows beside the closed arcade and shambled toward Tanya. He looked like something that had crawled out of a grave in a zombie film—face gray under the moonlight, eyes like holes,... - #6
In a world where human cloning has become a reality, "Constance" follows the story of Constance Con D'Arcy who wakes up to find herself in a clinic 18 months later with missing memories and the realization that her original self is dead. As she retraces her steps to uncover the truth, she is marked for murder, delving into the political and psychological implications of cloning. The book explores complex questions of identity, survival, and the consequences of advancements in cloning technology in a suspenseful and realistic manner, reminiscent of the style of Black Mirror and Orphan Black.
The little purple Christmas tree had a lot to answer for. Con hadn’t celebrated Christmas in the three years she’d lived in Washington, DC. Hadn’t meant to this year either. But then on the way home f... - #7
Cory Doctorow's 'Red Team Blues: A Martin Hench Novel' is a propulsive read that delves into the world of forensic accounting and cryptocurrency crime, set in Silicon Valley. The book follows a smart middle-aged protagonist navigating through financial crimes with bleeding edge technology, bringing awareness to the negatives of technology while incorporating elements of a noir detective story.
The writing style of 'Red Team Blues' is sharp, fast-paced, and intelligent, with a perfect pacing that keeps the reader engaged. Doctorow weaves in social commentary seamlessly, showcasing a clash of power in the world of blockchain corruption and the challenges faced by individuals caught in the middle of technological advancements and criminal activities.
- #8
Necrotech by K.C. Alexander is a cyberpunk novel set in a society on the brink of collapse, where corporations wield disproportionate power, organized crime is ruthless, and the police are corrupt. The protagonist, Riko, is a fierce and complex character who navigates a world filled with high-tech cybernetics, nano machines, and augmented reality. The plot revolves around Riko waking up in a strange place with no memory, embarking on a journey filled with action, mystery, and dangerous alliances. The writing style is described as gritty, vulgar, and fun, with a strong focus on character development and world-building.
- #9
"Radicalized" by Cory Doctorow is a collection of four novellas that delve into near-future dystopias, exploring themes such as the proliferation of DRM, systematic racism, doomsday prepping, and radicalization. The stories are heavy-handed in their political statements, addressing issues like healthcare, police violence, and societal collapse with a dark and cautionary tone. Doctorow's writing style is described as direct, unflinching, and thought-provoking, painting a vivid picture of a world on the brink of chaos and inequality.
THE WAY SALIMA found out that Boulangism had gone bankrupt: her toaster wouldn’t accept her bread. She held the slice in front of it and waited for the screen to show her a thumbs-up emoji, but instea... - #10
'Walkaway' by Cory Doctorow is a near-future science fiction novel that explores a world where people choose to walk away from a society controlled by rich oligarchs and create a new civilization in deserted areas. The story delves into themes of economics, politics, technology, ethics, psychology, and anarchy, painting a picture of a future where individuals build communities based on shared resources and ideals. The narrative follows a group of characters navigating through a world of abundance, revolution, and resistance against the powerful forces trying to maintain the status quo.
The writing style of 'Walkaway' is described as a mix of dialogue-heavy storytelling, detailed descriptions, and philosophical discussions. The author, Cory Doctorow, weaves together complex ideas and concepts with a focus on social change, human nature, and the impact of technology on society. presents a dark yet hopeful vision of the future, challenging readers to consider alternative ways of living and organizing communities in a world marked by scarcity and inequality.
Hubert Vernon Rudolph Clayton Irving Wilson Alva Anton Jeff Harley Timothy Curtis Cleveland Cecil Ollie Edmund Eli Wiley Marvin Ellis Espinoza was too old to be at a Communist party. At twenty-seven, ...