Ubik

by Philip K. Dick
Ubik cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
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  • ID: 11569
  • Added: 2026-03-10
  • Updated: 2026-03-10
  • ISBN: 9781444840698
  • Published: 2019-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Set in a futuristic world where psychic powers are a part of everyday life, 'Ubik' follows Glen Runciter, the head of an organization that employs 'inertials' to protect people's privacy from these psychic intrusions. When Runciter and his team are ambushed on the moon, he seemingly dies, but his grieving employees begin receiving cryptic messages from him. As the world around them starts to regress and warp, they race against time to unravel the mystery of Runciter's death and the sinister forces at play. Philip K. Dick's 'Ubik' is a mind-bending exploration of reality, perception, and the nature of existence. The novel delves into themes of identity, consciousness, and the blurred lines between life and death, all wrapped in a thrilling and suspenseful narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Reviews
Schicksalgemeinschaft · 2020-06-09
satisfying 4.75

Ubik's puzzles keep the mind engaged, and the resolution is satisfying. The novel is praised for its intricate layers and satisfying conclusion.

The reviewer from Schicksalgemeinschaft highlights how Ubik's puzzles keep the reader's mind occupied throughout the story. They find the resolution particularly satisfying, indicating that the novel's intricate layers build up to a fulfilling conclusion. The reviewer appreciates the complexity and depth of the narrative, making it a rewarding read. They also mention an excellent piece by Manuel Antão, which further praises the novel, adding to its positive reception.

Quick quotes

    Ubik's puzzles keep the mind occupied, and the resolution is satisfying.

    The novel's intricate layers build up to a fulfilling conclusion.

    Manuel Antão wrote an excellent, glowing piece about Ubik.

Fantasy Hive · 2017-12-31
compelling 4.50

Ubik is a sci-fi story that explores complex themes like telepathy, eternity, reality, and the nature of life. Despite its flaws, it remains a compelling narrative.

The reviewer at Fantasy Hive acknowledges that Ubik has its share of foibles and shortcomings, but they still appreciate the depth of the story. The novel tackles heavy themes like telepathy, eternity, reality, and the nature of life, making it a thought-provoking read. They note that the story's complexity and ambition outweigh its flaws, making it a compelling sci-fi narrative. The reviewer finds the book's exploration of these themes intriguing and worth the read, despite any imperfections.

Quick quotes

    Ubik can still claim that it's telling a sci-fi story that deals with telepathy, eternity, reality, and the nature of life.

    For all its foibles and shortcomings, Ubik remains a compelling narrative.

    The novel's depth and ambition make it a thought-provoking read.

The Guardian · 2014-03-18
intriguing 4.25

Ubik is described as 'squishy,' a novel that resists a firm grip. Its malleability makes it a unique and intriguing read.

The reviewer from The Guardian uses the term 'squishy' to describe Ubik, indicating that the novel resists a firm grasp. They find that the more you look at it, the more it moves and changes, making it a unique and intriguing read. This malleability is seen as a strength, as it allows the novel to explore various themes and ideas in a fluid and dynamic way. The reviewer appreciates this quality, making Ubik a standout in the realm of science fiction.

Quick quotes

    For want of a better word, I'd say 'squishy' is ideal. You can't get a firm grip on Ubik.

    The more you look at Ubik, the more it moves.

    Ubik's malleability makes it a unique and intriguing read.

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