Isaac Asimov's Ghosts : Book Review

Isaac Asimov's Ghosts is an anthology of science fiction short stories edited by Gardner Dozois. Its pages are filled with a diverse selection of captivating tales, all inspired by the works of the legendary writer, Isaac Asimov. Each story delves into the intriguing themes of robotics, artificial intelligence, and the future of humanity, offering readers a thought-provoking exploration of these concepts.

One of the standout stories in this collection is "A Braver Thing" written by Charles Sheffield. This particular tale follows the journey of Andy, a robot who unexpectedly becomes a surrogate parent to a young girl with a terminal illness. Through this unlikely relationship, the story delves into the ethical implications of robotics, raising profound questions about what it means to be human and the importance of love and compassion.

Another notable addition to this anthology is "The One That Got Away" by Jody Lynn Nye. Set in a future where virtual reality dominates society, this lighthearted tale combines elements of humor, adventure, and a sprinkle of romance. The protagonist, Bob, embarks on a wild and chaotic adventure while attempting to catch a virtual giant fish, resulting in an enjoyable and entertaining read.

Additionally, the collection features stories like "The Farm" by Tad Williams, which explores the manipulation of society through virtual reality, and "A Knight of Ghosts and Shadows" by Tom Doherty, which delves into the realm of virtual gaming and artificial intelligence.

Overall, Isaac Asimov's Ghosts offers readers a captivating and diverse collection of science fiction tales that pay homage to the profound legacy of Isaac Asimov. With its exploration of various technological themes and their societal impact, this anthology is a must-read for fans of Asimov's work and anyone who enjoys thought-provoking science fiction.

What are readers saying?

Isaac Asimov's Ghosts is an anthology of short stories edited by Gardner Dozois that aims to continue the legacy of the renowned science fiction writer Isaac Asimov. The collection has garnered a mix of reviews from readers.

One aspect that received praise from readers is the diversity and imagination found within the stories. Many appreciated how the authors explored various themes and concepts while staying true to Asimov's storytelling style. The book was commended for its intriguing and thought-provoking tales, making it a compelling choice for science fiction enthusiasts.

However, some readers felt that the stories lacked the depth and originality typically associated with Asimov's work. While enjoyable, these tales were perceived to be lacking the essence of Asimov's unique writing style. Some readers even found them predictable or derivative of Asimov's previous works.

The organization of the anthology also elicited mixed feedback. Some readers found the order of the stories to be well-structured, with each story building upon the previous one. On the other hand, others felt that the arrangement was disjointed and disrupted the flow of the book.

The editing of the anthology, carried out by Gardner Dozois, also generated differing opinions. Some readers praised Dozois' selection of stories, stating that they were well-curated and showcased the talent of the contributing authors. However, there were those who believed that the editing could have been more meticulous, as a few stories did not meet the same quality standards as the others.

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