In my last real update I talked about two books by Jack McDevit. I’ve knocked off four of his now and I’m quickly becoming a big fan. Most recent and possibly my favorite so far is The Engines of God. It’s in the sub genre of Archeological Sci Fi, which makes it an easy sell for me. In this universe (unrelated to the series I’ve previously mentioned) humans have expanded out into the stars but they’re the only sentient species of note. At least, the only one still around. What they have found is the ruins of several civilizations including one that had been far beyond their own technological level. Why these civilizations are gone is a matter of great debate, as is the meaning of the strange monuments they left behind. It has a bit of the same flavor as Nightfall or Calculating God but comes at it from a different angle. Loved it. There are several more in the series, plus a couple more series and standalone. I expect he’ll have a steady place on my reading queue for the foreseeable future.
Other books of note that I’ve finished recently, Old Man’s War by John Scalzi, Flash Forward by Robert J Sawyer and SuperFreakonomics by the other two Steves: Levit and Dubner. If you’ve read Freakonomics, the sequel is more of the same and thus well worth the read. If you’ve not, go check it out. The highlight of the book can be summed up in two words, monkey prostitution. Priceless.
Flash Forward was the source material for the ABC tv show Flash Forward but they’re really two different stories. I loved the series and I’m still pissed about its cancellation, especially since they kept the far less compelling V, but alas. The book doesn’t have quite the same mystery to it as the series and ah heavier Sci Fi bent, but it’s still a great read. I’m happy to recommend anything by Robert J Sawyer, Calculating God for example, and there should be more from him coming up in the queue.
Old Man’s War explores a fascinating situation. In this future humanity there are two major groups. The colonists out among the stars and those left back on Earth. The colonies have effectively quarantined Earth. They hold a technological advantage and control Earth’s access to anything off surface. Efforts to alleviate overpopulation and poverty allow those populations off planet to start new colonies but for developed nations there’s only one option. When you’ve reached the age of 75 you can enlist in the Colonial Defense Force. Yup, they only let you off planet to join the army in retirement. Survive up to ten years of service and you get a second life out in the colonies. More technologically advanced indeed. Great book and a good fun romp. Another series for my queue.
