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I don't normally have/make much time to read, and am quite a slow reader. All the time travelling / sitting in airports, and around the conference have lead to me reading far more than usual. I thought I'd record what I got through.
- James Blish - A case of conscience
- This is a short book, which is always a plus point! It's about theological orthodoxy colliding with xenobiology, and the main character is very sympathetic. I found it a gripping and thought-provoking read, as well as providing a satirical look at modern society. I think his liturgy was a bit iffy, though, which spoiled the impact of the moment.
- John Meaney - To hold infinity
- A bit of a brick, at around 550 pages, but a quick read. Another biologist lead character, this time a Bushido black-belt, on an alien planet searching for her son. The otherness of human (and super-human) society is evoked effectively, without the technobabble becoming overwhelming. A well-described story, with convincing characters, if let down by a somewhat predictable plot.
- John Snow - Shooting History
- This is an autobiographical work, discussing some of John Snow's adventures trying to report the news for television. He inevitably gets involved in the stories he reports on, and that shapes some well-thought out rants on the state of the world today. He still almost regrets not shooting Idi Amin when he had the chance...
- John Sweet - Revelation
- I wonder if I should tell John Sweet I read his book on the beach? I've not finished this, but it's been interesting so far; scholarly without being dry, and accessible without over-simplifying. He doesn't assume any knowledge of foreign or ancient languages, either, which is a definite plus!
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The biology isn't stupid, if I recall correctly? So many hard SF authors can't deal with biology (i.e. evolution) correctly when it's such an easy thing - one theory, get it and you're there. Honorable exception for Greg Egan whose Terranesia I was nervous about reading, thinking, esp. from the blurb, that he would get it wrong, but he didn't. It was speculative and fantastical but not stupid.
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I'm guessing you've read the Ender series and The Sparrow? If not, you might find them worth a look.
I wonder if I should tell John Sweet I read his book on the beach?
You should. He'd be flattered, I think.
James Blish - A case of conscience
What is it about Jesuits? They seem almost as good as dragons for making a book.