The Three-Body Problem
The Three-Body Problem
Pages: 416
Genres: Sci-Fi
Published: 2006
Set against the backdrop of China’s Cultural Revolution, a secret military project sends signals into space to establish contact with aliens.
An alien civilization on the brink of destruction captures the signal and plans to invade Earth.
Meanwhile, on Earth, different camps start forming, planning to either welcome the superior beings and help them take over a world seen as corrupt, or to fight against the invasion.
Review: I learned about this book from the TV adaptation that was based on it (see my review here), and because of that, I knew what the main theme of the book was before I even started reading it.
In the end, though, I have to say that the book is MUCH better than the show.
To the best of my knowledge, the physics are implemented correctly, and the idea of a three-body system without a mathematical means of distinguishing between the chaotic and stable phases is a fantastic use of science fiction.
It’s a very science-heavy book that’s great for fans of this genre and people who want to see how first contact with aliens can be told in different ways.
Perhaps this was the author’s intention, or perhaps it was just a matter of cultural and historical differences, but the characters didn’t feel authentic; they were somewhat emotionless and unremarkable.
The lecture was fascinating as it allowed me to delve into Chinese science fiction. I also learned about Chinese history and culture and got a new perspective on the first contact with aliens.
I read the translation of the original Chinese text into English.