Termination Shock by Neal Stephenson
Neal Stephenson is one of my favorite authors, and I have read the majority of his work.
- This book feels extremely of the moment. It is set in the near future but many there are references to the capitol insurrection, COVID, the “original” pandemic lockdown.
- Interesting science based interludes
- Bit of a slog, book drags at points but there are some great moments.
- The climate narrative was interesting because there were not “good” and “bad” guys in this story.
Normal People by Sally Rooney
This was my least favorite of Sally Rooney’s three books thus far, yet still a good book. Rooney’s characters are expertly drawn and complex as always. There are times where the book stirs powerful feelings: discomfort, sadness, and hope. However, Normal People falls short of the high bar that Conversation with Friends and Beautiful World set.
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
- While video games are the arguable center of this book, it’s enjoyable even if you know nothing about video games or even don’t care for them. The relationships of the three central characters are the driver of the book. The fights the characters have feel realistic. Since you are treated to all three’s perspectives, it’s possible to appreciate how and why they are fighting.
- Creative stylistic choices, for example during the Both Sides game discussion, it rapidly flip flops between both sides of the experience (both major characters).
Sugar Street by Jonathan Dee
- Easy Read
- Interesting story structure. Internal piece with lots of commentary
- Not sure I think the story holds together after all is said and done
- Main story on surveillance and disappearing in society was compelling