Reviews

I picked up Ringworld because it is a winner of both Hugo and Nebula awards for 1970, so I went into it expecting some amazing sci-fi writing on par with Dune. The literal science part of the sci-fi was actually captivating. Larry Niven introduces some incredibly smart theoretical concepts in the realm of futuristic space travel, technological advancements, and cultural trends. I was immediately impressed by the world that Niven set up.

Unfortunately, the actual plot was woefully lacking. Aimless missions through space and women characterized by solely their idiocy and sexual drive were enough to totally undermine all of the brilliant theoretical science.

Overall: an interesting but one-dimensional technical sci-fi that likely inspired later sci-fi works of a higher caliber. 2.5 stars

gygpa's review against another edition

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adventurous lighthearted mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

attackrat's review against another edition

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slow-paced

Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No

1.0

miserable, bigoted, and unimaginative. this book is throughly uninteresting beyond its applications of scientific imagination and even those are delivered so dully that it’s impossible to care.

“she must’ve had a doctorate in prostitution” about one of 2 female characters in the entire book. the other’s story is completely revolved around her having no agency. how creative.

Ursula K. Le Guin wrote circles around this garbage please go read her books instead.

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