Released: 11th November 2014 (English Translation)
Number of Pages: 424
Genre: Science-Fiction, Historical
Widely regarded as one of China’s best authors, Cixin Liu has made a high impact with his science fiction works. Thanks to the efforts of Ken Liu, The Three-Body Problem has made its way to foreign territories with a full translation. It’s the first in a trilogy that blends real world upheaval with more mind-bending events.
The plot involves the titular video game, which appears to offer an unparalleled glimpse into humanity’s future. Much like Sid Meier’s Civilization, it charts the rise and fall of peoples across millennia, but it also gives way to a new sect of rebels hellbent on bringing our species to an end. We experience these events through the eyes of two characters; to establish the narrative, Ye Wenjie watches in horror as her father is beaten to death during China’s cultural revolution. During her forced re-education in the mountains, she is employed to a secretive communications project which is able to communicate in the furthest reaches of the universe. Then, some four decades later, nanotech engineer Wang Miao is hired by a task force to investigate the strange new cult.
Unfolding across three main acts, the sections of the book are very defined, as are the leading characters. By making use of a turbulent time in China’s history, Liu is able to engage the reader immediately, planting a seed in Wenjie’s mind that fuels her turn against out species collectively. On the other hand, from Wang’s perspective, we experience a dazzling display within The Three-Body Problem itself. Inside this virtual world, the author creates an intoxicating backdrop to create a powerfully absorbing effect. However, you should expect a lot of technical language here as Cixin delves into a lot of deep discussion surrounding science and the construction of massive structures. Swapping between multiple perspectives in its final act, The Three-Body Problem leaves off on a tantalising and foreboding future; one you’ll be very eager to explore for the rest of the series.
Recommended?
YES: The Three-Body Problem is science fiction at its most detailed and vivid. The fact that it comes from a unique and unexpected source really sets it apart from other modern entries. By using its historical springboard to draw you in, it’s hard not to get invested. While the metaphysical aspects of the second act can grow a little over-bearing, Liu’s vision carries through very well.
(As of posting, The Dark Forest and Death’s End have also been translated into English to complete the set)
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