2021 Recap: Acquired x Not Boring x The Generalist

The novel follows the arrival of the Overlords, mysterious aliens who bring about a utopian era of peace and prosperity on Earth. However, this new era comes at the cost of human creativity, ambition, and eventually, human identity. The story is divided into three parts, each exploring different themes: the initial invasion, the golden age under the Overlords, and the eventual transformation of human children into a new form of psychic hive-mind consciousness. The novel raises philosophical questions about the nature of humanity, the price of progress, and the ultimate fate of the human race under alien supervision.

In 'Project Hail Mary', Ryland Grace, a high school science teacher, awakens on a spaceship with no memory of how he got there or his mission. He soon discovers that he is the sole survivor of a desperate mission to save Earth from a microorganism called the Astrophage, which is threatening to cause a new ice age. As Ryland regains his memories, he encounters an alien named Rocky, and together they work to solve the scientific mystery and save their respective home planets. The story blends science, humor, and heart, exploring themes of survival, discovery, and unlikely friendships.

A Memory Called Empire, by Arkady Martine, is a captivating science fiction novel that blends political intrigue with cultural exploration. The story follows Mahit Dzmare, a diplomat sent to the Teixcalaanli Empire, a vast and complex civilization with a unique language and culture. Martine's world-building is intricate and immersive, creating a richly detailed setting that feels both alien and strangely familiar. The novel explores themes of identity, colonialism, and the power of language, all while maintaining a fast-paced and engaging plot. A Memory Called Empire is a thought-provoking and rewarding read for fans of science fiction.

In 'Home Game: An Accidental Guide to Fatherhood', Michael Lewis shares his experiences as a father of three, detailing the humorous and often chaotic aspects of modern parenting. The book is based on a series of articles he wrote for Slate, offering a unique perspective on the role of fathers in contemporary family life. Lewis's narrative is both entertaining and relatable, as he navigates the complexities of being a more involved dad in today's society.

The Ministry for the Future is a novel by Kim Stanley Robinson that delves into the urgent issue of climate change. Set in the near future, the story follows the establishment of a UN agency, the Ministry for the Future, whose mission is to advocate for the rights of future generations. The novel is told through multiple perspectives, including those of Mary Murphy, the head of the Ministry, and Frank May, an American aid worker who survives a devastating heat wave in India. The book explores various innovative solutions to climate change, such as the introduction of a new currency called 'carboni' to incentivize decarbonization, and it presents a hopeful yet realistic vision of how humanity might cooperate to mitigate the effects of climate change. The narrative includes a mix of fictional eyewitness accounts, non-fiction descriptions, and diverse writing styles, reflecting the complexity and urgency of the climate crisis.

This graphic novel collects the backstories of the main characters from The Expanse, including James Holden, Naomi Nagata, Alex Kamal, Amos Burton, and Josephus Miller. The stories, created by James S.A. Corey but written by Hallie Lambert and Georgia Lee, and illustrated by Huang Danlan, provide insight into what led each character to join the crew of the Canterbury. The collection follows the television series continuity and offers a compelling look at the characters' pasts, making it a must-read for fans of The Expanse.

In 'Ada or Ardor: A Family Chronicle', Vladimir Nabokov crafts a narrative dense with themes of love and time. The novel follows the passionate and troubled romance between Van and Ada Veen, who are revealed to be siblings. Their love story unfolds amidst societal taboos, tragedy, and the passage of time, all woven into Nabokov's intricate prose.

Ernest Cline's "A Tour Through Rabbits" is a fast-paced science fiction novel that takes readers on a thrilling adventure through a virtual reality world. The story follows the protagonist as they navigate a complex and ever-changing digital landscape. Cline's writing style is known for its blend of humor, action, and social commentary. The novel explores themes of escapism, identity, and the blurring lines between reality and virtuality. "A Tour Through Rabbits" is a captivating read for fans of science fiction and virtual reality.