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A review by a_reader_of_book
Exhalation by Ted Chiang
challenging
emotional
mysterious
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? It's complicated
4.0
Ted Chiang's collection of short stories in "Exhalation" was a really enjoyable read for me. I haven't always been the biggest fan of short stories collections, but I'm trying to broaden my tastes. Thankfully, I liked this science-fiction collection, and the story notes at the end of the collection were so cool to read and get an insight into Chiang's head! As I've done before, I'll provide brief reviews and ratings for each story, and then average them for my overall rating.
"The Merchant and the Alchemist's Gate" was an interesting take on "The Arabian Nights" stories with a cool, sci-fi twist. I appreciated the character and story development, and I thought it was the perfect length for what it was. 3.75/5 stars.
"Exhalation" was such a cool examination of scientific discovery, especially related to the self. How do scientists learn about the innerworkings of their own bodies? This story had some pretty incredible visuals that sort of blew my mind (if you read it, you'll see what I did there). 4/5 stars.
"What's Expected of Us" was a very brief discussion of free will. It was interesting, but I didn't get as absorbed by this story as others. 2.75/5 stars.
"The Lifecycle of Software Objects" was one of the longest stories in this collection, and I absolutely loved it! It touched my heart, made me really think about important concepts surrounding AI, and was written so beautifully. If you only check out one story from this whole collection, please read this one! 5/5 stars.
"Dacey's Patent Automatic Nanny" examined the complexities that arise when technology and childhood collide. I think it's an important topic to consider, especially given the increasing number of screens being put in front of kids. 3.25/5 stars.
"The Truth of Fact, the Truth of Feeling" also focused on the impact new technology has on culture. People feared radio would ruin future generations. The same can be said of TV and now smartphones. But what opportunities do we miss out on by avoiding advancements in tech? And what unseen or unexpected consequences do we face when adopting these advancements as key parts of our lives? 4/5 stars
"The Great Silence" was another brief story told from an unexpected perspective. While humans are constantly looking out into space for signs of life, there are incredible things here on our own planet that can be overlooked. 3.75/5 stars.
"Omphalos" brought ideas about creationism and intelligent design into a discussion of science. What are discoveries worth if there isn't some grand meaning for us being here? What inspires scientists to continue to unearth the truth? What aspects of religious faith are mirrored in science? 4/5 stars.
"Anxiety Is the Dizziness of Freedom" was my second favorite story in Chiang's collection. In this world, a device called a prism can be used to communicate with your 'paraself' who exists in a parallel universe that only branches off from your current world when you use a prism. Of course, some people abuse this opportunity. Some people become obsessed with it. But what do your actions mean when there's another you in another world potentially doing the exact opposite? And what are the consequences of creating another "branch" world for yourself, the ones you love, and even random strangers? This is another story to check out, for sure! 4.75/5 stars.
After averaging, the collection as a whole gets 3.916 (rounded to 4) out of 5 stars. If you are interested in some sci-fi stories to get you thinking, I'd say you can't go wrong with picking this up!
"The Merchant and the Alchemist's Gate" was an interesting take on "The Arabian Nights" stories with a cool, sci-fi twist. I appreciated the character and story development, and I thought it was the perfect length for what it was. 3.75/5 stars.
"Exhalation" was such a cool examination of scientific discovery, especially related to the self. How do scientists learn about the innerworkings of their own bodies? This story had some pretty incredible visuals that sort of blew my mind (if you read it, you'll see what I did there). 4/5 stars.
"What's Expected of Us" was a very brief discussion of free will. It was interesting, but I didn't get as absorbed by this story as others. 2.75/5 stars.
"The Lifecycle of Software Objects" was one of the longest stories in this collection, and I absolutely loved it! It touched my heart, made me really think about important concepts surrounding AI, and was written so beautifully. If you only check out one story from this whole collection, please read this one! 5/5 stars.
"Dacey's Patent Automatic Nanny" examined the complexities that arise when technology and childhood collide. I think it's an important topic to consider, especially given the increasing number of screens being put in front of kids. 3.25/5 stars.
"The Truth of Fact, the Truth of Feeling" also focused on the impact new technology has on culture. People feared radio would ruin future generations. The same can be said of TV and now smartphones. But what opportunities do we miss out on by avoiding advancements in tech? And what unseen or unexpected consequences do we face when adopting these advancements as key parts of our lives? 4/5 stars
"The Great Silence" was another brief story told from an unexpected perspective. While humans are constantly looking out into space for signs of life, there are incredible things here on our own planet that can be overlooked. 3.75/5 stars.
"Omphalos" brought ideas about creationism and intelligent design into a discussion of science. What are discoveries worth if there isn't some grand meaning for us being here? What inspires scientists to continue to unearth the truth? What aspects of religious faith are mirrored in science? 4/5 stars.
"Anxiety Is the Dizziness of Freedom" was my second favorite story in Chiang's collection. In this world, a device called a prism can be used to communicate with your 'paraself' who exists in a parallel universe that only branches off from your current world when you use a prism. Of course, some people abuse this opportunity. Some people become obsessed with it. But what do your actions mean when there's another you in another world potentially doing the exact opposite? And what are the consequences of creating another "branch" world for yourself, the ones you love, and even random strangers? This is another story to check out, for sure! 4.75/5 stars.
After averaging, the collection as a whole gets 3.916 (rounded to 4) out of 5 stars. If you are interested in some sci-fi stories to get you thinking, I'd say you can't go wrong with picking this up!
Content Warnings
Minor: Addiction, Death, Gun violence, Mental illness, Suicide, and Car accident