Snow Crash

by Neal Stephenson
Snow Crash cover
Good Books rating 3.75
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
Technical:
  • ID: 1916
  • Added: 2025-10-11
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9780140232929
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 1993-01-01
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 3
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Hiro, a skilled hacker and one of the founders of the digital Metaverse, finds himself drawn into a high-stakes mystery when he encounters a mysterious cyber-drug called Snow Crash. This drug, which shouldn't exist in their digital world, has devastating side effects that blur the line between reality and virtual reality. As Hiro delves deeper into the origins of Snow Crash, he uncovers a conspiracy that threatens the very fabric of their society./n/nThe novel explores themes of identity, technology, and the consequences of unchecked innovation. With its fast-paced action and intricate world-building, Snow Crash is a thrilling ride through a future where the boundaries between the physical and digital worlds are increasingly blurred.

Reviews
N S Ford · 2025-10-11
ambitious 3.00

The novel is a sprawling mess that is about 300 pages too long. It mixes pulp fiction, dystopia, and excessive info-dumping.

The reviewer finds Snow Crash to be a sprawling and somewhat messy novel that struggles to find a consistent tone. They appreciate the ambitious scope and the blend of different genres, but feel that the book could have benefited from tighter editing. The info-dumping, while informative, often disrupts the flow of the narrative. Despite its flaws, the reviewer acknowledges the novel's creativity and its influence on the science fiction genre. They suggest that readers approach the book with patience and a willingness to overlook its imperfections.

Quick quotes

    Snow Crash is a sprawling mess of a novel that's about 300 pages too long.

    It's an odd mixture of pulp fiction, dystopia and info-dumping about ancient belief systems.

    The novel's creativity and influence on the science fiction genre are undeniable.

Sign of the Rose · 2024-01-06
thought-provoking 4.25

The novel offers a dystopic view of a future shaped by emerging internet technology. It blends humor and intelligence in a way that feels both timely and prescient.

The reviewer finds Snow Crash to be a fascinating exploration of a future where the internet has drastically altered society. They appreciate the blend of humor and intelligence that Stephenson brings to the narrative, making the dystopian setting feel both entertaining and thought-provoking. The reviewer also notes that the novel's predictions about the impact of technology on culture and language have proven to be remarkably prescient. While the book's length and occasional info-dumping can be overwhelming, the overall experience is engaging and worth the effort.

Quick quotes

    Snow Crash is a dystopic view into the future from the early 1990s when the internet was emerging to an imaginative world of a United States.

    The novel blends humor and intelligence in a way that feels both timely and prescient.

    Stephenson's predictions about the impact of technology on culture and language have proven to be remarkably prescient.

All Sci Fi All The Time · 2019-04-08
exciting 4.00

The action scenes are frequent and well-executed, setting a fast-paced tone from the very beginning. The futuristic world-building is both imaginative and engaging.

The reviewer is impressed by the novel's non-stop action, which starts right from the first page and keeps the reader hooked throughout. They appreciate the detailed and creative world-building, which paints a vivid picture of a futuristic America. The reviewer also highlights the clever integration of technology and culture, making the dystopian setting feel both familiar and exciting. While the rapid pace and constant action might not be for everyone, those who enjoy fast-paced science fiction will find much to enjoy here.

Quick quotes

    The action scenes are numerous and mostly well-timed and well-written.

    The action begins on the first page and sets the tone for the rest of the book.

    The futuristic world-building is both imaginative and engaging.

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