misshgtraveling's review against another edition
3.0
I believe the biggest area of improvement needed with the AI conversion as a whole is to address fear. Experts in AI seem to be ignoring that issue entirely and I don't think this book helps to address fear of AI. Otherwise, a good overview, introduction, and explanation of AI. Very utopian and disconnected from reality.
bentoush's review against another edition
challenging
informative
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
3.5
otisbuster's review against another edition
adventurous
informative
inspiring
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
dptillman's review against another edition
The non fiction sections are interesting but the short stories don’t do it for me, couldn’t get into them
hussainweb's review against another edition
challenging
informative
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
This is a long book for what it purportedly sets out to do, but it is enjoyable. Each of the ten stories is well written. While not sophisticated stories, they have enough depth to be enjoyable while delivering the vision of the future. Each of the stories is followed by an explanation of the various technologies and how they work (at an overview level) and also the non-technical aspects such as bias, economics, social impact, etc.
If you’re interested in the wide world of the AI, this would be a very interesting read for you.
If you’re interested in the wide world of the AI, this would be a very interesting read for you.
cmrani30's review against another edition
2.0
Interesting to see predictions so off after only 1 year.
ruben_franz's review against another edition
challenging
dark
hopeful
informative
inspiring
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? It's complicated
3.25
Disclaimer: Reviewer is not a native speaker. Read in German translation (Thorsten Schmidt)
An important book. Because it deals with a relevant topic in a meaningful and thoughtful way.
The linking of SF stories and the corresponding technical explanations and prognoses is clever and strategically positioned. A clear stylistic closeness to Liu Cixin cannot be overlooked for me, though of course one has to be careful here as I have not read either of them in their respective original languages, but only in translations, which leaves this statement on very German feet.
I'm not a big fan of the introductory "blurb" for each story and the references to later stories within the explainer sections. This may be because I have the impression that this way I cannot read the stories with an open mind and be completely surprised, which for me is an important part of my reading experience. From my point of view, it seems as if Kai-Fu Lee wanted to put his stamp on the book in as many places as possible, which is rather detrimental to the quality and independence of the Quifan Chen parts. I consider the selection and variety of AI forms and application areas covered to be one of the great strengths, as one gets a lot of food for thought and lines of development.
I read the book as part of a book club and the resulting discussions are for me the decisive plus point for this book.
A clear recommendation for all those who are still looking for a book for their own book club. Also a recommendation for those interested in technology and sci-fi enthusiasts. Basically, I am even convinced that the topic is so relevant and needs such a comprehensive social engagement that I would even recommend it to everyone, regardless of their technical background. The inclusive and varied format makes it eminently suitable for this.
Not a recommendation for anyone who doesn't like to be lectured to or is unteachable.
An important book. Because it deals with a relevant topic in a meaningful and thoughtful way.
The linking of SF stories and the corresponding technical explanations and prognoses is clever and strategically positioned. A clear stylistic closeness to Liu Cixin cannot be overlooked for me, though of course one has to be careful here as I have not read either of them in their respective original languages, but only in translations, which leaves this statement on very German feet.
I'm not a big fan of the introductory "blurb" for each story and the references to later stories within the explainer sections. This may be because I have the impression that this way I cannot read the stories with an open mind and be completely surprised, which for me is an important part of my reading experience. From my point of view, it seems as if Kai-Fu Lee wanted to put his stamp on the book in as many places as possible, which is rather detrimental to the quality and independence of the Quifan Chen parts. I consider the selection and variety of AI forms and application areas covered to be one of the great strengths, as one gets a lot of food for thought and lines of development.
I read the book as part of a book club and the resulting discussions are for me the decisive plus point for this book.
A clear recommendation for all those who are still looking for a book for their own book club. Also a recommendation for those interested in technology and sci-fi enthusiasts. Basically, I am even convinced that the topic is so relevant and needs such a comprehensive social engagement that I would even recommend it to everyone, regardless of their technical background. The inclusive and varied format makes it eminently suitable for this.
Not a recommendation for anyone who doesn't like to be lectured to or is unteachable.
jennundersea's review against another edition
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
2.0
ktwedd's review against another edition
adventurous
hopeful
informative
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.75