Ken Liu’s latest novel ‘All That We See or Seem’ is speculative fiction about AI

Ken Liu's "The Paper Menagerie" is a poignant and magical realist short story exploring themes of cultural identity, family relationships, and the complexities of belonging. The story follows a Chinese-American boy who grows up to resent his Chinese heritage and mother. The narrative is characterized by its emotional depth and the use of magical elements to convey the characters' inner struggles. The story's exploration of intergenerational trauma and the search for identity resonates with readers on a deeply personal level. It's a powerful and moving tale about the enduring bonds of family and the importance of understanding one's cultural roots.

Written in epistolary form, the novel tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant and ambitious scientist who, driven by Enlightenment-era ideas of progress and science, creates a living being from dead body parts. However, upon seeing the creature come to life, Frankenstein is horrified and abandons it. The creature, shunned by society due to its appearance, seeks revenge against its creator, leading to a series of tragic events. The novel explores themes of guilt, loss, and the emotional and moral consequences of scientific hubris, blending elements of Gothic and Romantic literature.

Published in 1667, 'Paradise Lost' is an epic poem in blank verse that follows the biblical story of the Fall of Man. The poem begins in medias res, detailing the descent of Satan and his followers into Hell after their rebellion against God. It explores two main narrative arcs: one focusing on Satan's actions and the other on Adam and Eve's story in the Garden of Eden. The poem delves into themes such as free will, obedience, revenge, and pride, and it portrays the complex characters of Satan, Adam, and Eve. Milton's work is known for its rich language, classical structure, and profound theological and philosophical insights.