Ghost In the Shell 2: Innocence: After the Long Goodbye : Book Review

"Ghost in the Shell 2" by Masaki Yamada presents an enthralling and contemplative journey into a world that intertwines humans and cyborgs. Acting as a sequel to the original "Ghost in the Shell," this novel delves into profound philosophical themes, pushing the boundaries of human and machine consciousness.

The story revolves around Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg agent known for her remarkable hacking abilities. As mysterious events unfold in the cyberspace, Kusanagi embarks on a mission to investigate. Immersed in the virtual realm, she unravels a mind-bending conspiracy that challenges the very nature of identity and reality.

What truly distinguishes this book is its profound exploration of the human condition through the lens of artificial intelligence and cybernetics. Yamada expertly intertwines intricate philosophical concepts with exhilarating action, creating a narrative that stimulates both intellect and emotion. The moral dilemmas faced by the characters compel readers to reassess their own sense of self and contemplate the impact of technology on our lives.

The book excels in its vivid and immersive world-building. Yamada effortlessly paints a futuristic setting, bringing to life the gritty streets of a cyberpunk city and the vast expanses of the virtual realm. The attention to detail and depiction of technological advancements craft a believable and fully-realized world, captivating readers from beginning to end.

Overall, "Ghost in the Shell 2" is an essential read for enthusiasts of science fiction and cyberpunk genres. Masaki Yamada's writing style keeps readers at the edge of their seats, seamlessly blending action, philosophy, and technological advancements into a thought-provoking narrative. With its complex characters and gripping plot, this book will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on readers long after they have turned the final page.

What are readers saying?

The reception of Masaki Yamada's "Ghost in the Shell 2" has been a mixed bag among readers. This book serves as a continuation of the renowned cyberpunk manga series by Shirow Masamune, exploring a world where individuals can enhance their bodies with cybernetic technology.

Some readers have praised Yamada's faithful adaptation of Masamune's intricately crafted and thought-provoking world. They commended the author for successfully capturing the essence of the original series, including its philosophical themes and complex characters. Consequently, these readers found the book to be both engaging and a worthy continuation of the Ghost in the Shell universe.

On the other hand, there were readers who expressed disappointment in Yamada's execution of the story. They felt that the book lacked the depth and complexity present in the original manga and anime adaptations. These readers found the plot to be convoluted and confusing, making it difficult for them to fully enjoy the book. Additionally, some critics highlighted issues with the writing style, finding it less polished and nuanced than they had anticipated.

However, there was a common point of agreement among both positive and negative reviews: the remarkable artwork in "Ghost in the Shell 2." Many readers were captivated by the stunning visuals and intricate illustrations, which they considered to be a standout feature of the book. The artwork successfully brought the futuristic world to life and enriched the overall reading experience.

Another aspect that received mixed reviews was the characterization. Some readers believed that Yamada effectively captured the essence of the original characters, while others felt that the characters lacked depth and development. For the latter group, the interactions between characters felt flat and unengaging.

GhostInTheShell2 SciFiClassic CyberpunkGenre