aliens make for better sf

[sophiaserpentia]

So now i'm reading Stephen Baxter's Manifold Space, the sequel to Manifold Time. I didn't hugely enjoy the first book, the protagonist was a conceited jerk and the book had a kind of self-satisfied smugness in places. But i was curious to see how there could be a sequel to a book that ended with.... mmmm, not saying, but it had a pretty darn strong note of finality to it.

I'm enjoying this book much more. The elements that annoyed me about the first book are not present this time, and secondly, this book has aliens. I think -- no, i'm certain -- i just like science fiction more if there are aliens in it.

Comments

[ohari.livejournal.com]

Was Manifold time the one with Squids in space? I know I read it but I can't remember which book it is.........

[sophiaserpentia.livejournal.com]

Heh. :)

For me the core of good science fiction is always good characterization. Interesting and unusual ideas are great, but by themselves they won't hold my attention for long.

Because of this i like descriptions of different ways of thinking and perceiving: new cultures, alien cultures, deep changes caused by technological advance, etc.

[sophiaserpentia.livejournal.com]

Yes, that was Manifold Time. The squids were IMO the most interesting thing about the book.