A review by maxsebastian
The Ministry for the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
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? Yes
3.5
The Ministry for the Future is a terrifying look at what the world make look like in 10-15 years. While there's hope, this book starts off really depressing and stays that way for much of its page count. Robinson is an expert in climate science, and it shows. His knowledge of how diverse topics, from glaciology to carbon economics, could affect the outcome of the climate crisis is stunning.
While a fascinating glimpse into our future, this book struggles narratively. While there are a few main characters, many of the chapters are either from the perspective of someone you never hear from again or are an explanation of one of the climate science ideas Robinson wants to discuss. This structure is frustrating to read as often as soon as some plot point begins to build momentum, Robinson shifts focus to a different topic. That said, I don't think I've ever read a book that covered such a diverse array of perspectives. Robinson switches between first person, third, first personal plural, and explanatory sections with ease, and I surprised myself by finding these pages fairly easy to turn despite the narrative hump.
There's a reason Kim Stanley Robinson is lauded as one of the best climate writers out there. Reading The Ministry for the Future requires patience and critical thinking. While at times irritating, I ultimately think that is a sign of a worthy book.
While a fascinating glimpse into our future, this book struggles narratively. While there are a few main characters, many of the chapters are either from the perspective of someone you never hear from again or are an explanation of one of the climate science ideas Robinson wants to discuss. This structure is frustrating to read as often as soon as some plot point begins to build momentum, Robinson shifts focus to a different topic. That said, I don't think I've ever read a book that covered such a diverse array of perspectives. Robinson switches between first person, third, first personal plural, and explanatory sections with ease, and I surprised myself by finding these pages fairly easy to turn despite the narrative hump.
There's a reason Kim Stanley Robinson is lauded as one of the best climate writers out there. Reading The Ministry for the Future requires patience and critical thinking. While at times irritating, I ultimately think that is a sign of a worthy book.