Read 1/25/20 – 1/26/20
I have been wanting to read this for the last year or so when I was seeking out Hugo and Nebula award winners. I never did because I knew this had a good bit of physics talk. I was worried it would be dry or worse, too advanced, for me to enjoy. I am happy to report that this was a great book. Cixin Liu and his translator, Ken Liu, have written a compelling and easy to consume work of science fiction.
I came into it with the idea that it is essentially a specific type of story (sub-genre). I won’t say what to avoid spoilers, but I was surprised when this was much less that kind of a story. That is to say, this book is very much a prelude of whats to come. It almost feels like a prequel to what’s to come. That is why I am hesitant to really classify it as such because that really ruins the slow methodical reveal.
I was really impressed with the plot. We follow several characters, with a focus on one, as an investigation takes place into a series of high profile scientists being killed. One man, basically the main protagonist, is tasked to infiltrate and investigate. Within it, he comes across a virtual reality game, the Three Body Problem. Now, this is a very elite game that supposedly only the very bright are able to play. What follows is series of revelations that were amazingly creative. I think what I liked most about the plot was a very unique take on this sub-genre of fiction.
I also want to give Liu props on very believable science fiction. As a scientist, I think it is a lot of fun, and really cool, to read a story that effectively uses science especially when that science is direct and easy to understand. It made for an engaging and enjoying ride. I am so excited to be moving on to the next in the series! 4/5 stars.
Rating Break Down
Writing Style: 8/10
Plot: 9/10
Characters: 7/10
Ending: 8/10
Engagement: 8/10
Enjoyment: 9/10
Comprehension: 7/10
Pacing: 7/10
Desire to Reread: 3/10
Special: 3/10
Final Rating: 3.765/5
Note, each rating is weighted based on personal importance.
For the Love of Science 
2 thoughts on “The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin ★★★★”