The Three-Body Problem

by Liu Cixin
The Three-Body Problem cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
Technical:
  • ID: 1919
  • Added: 2025-10-11
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9781784971540
  • Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
  • Published: 2015-03-12
  • Reviews: 3

The Three-Body Problem is a critically acclaimed science fiction novel that has captivated millions of readers worldwide. Set against the backdrop of China's Cultural Revolution and spanning decades, the story follows Ye Wenjie, whose traumatic past shapes her involvement in a secretive scientific cabal. The narrative weaves together cutting-edge physics, virtual reality, and a cosmic threat that could alter the fate of humanity. The book's unique blend of hard science, philosophical depth, and gripping suspense has earned it numerous awards, including the Hugo and Galaxy Awards for Best Novel. /n/nThe novel's exploration of complex scientific concepts, such as the Three-Body Problem in physics, is seamlessly integrated into a thrilling plot. The story's virtual world, ruled by the unpredictable interactions of three suns, adds a layer of intrigue and mystery. With its immersive world-building and thought-provoking themes, The Three-Body Problem stands as a testament to the power of science fiction to explore the boundaries of human knowledge and imagination.

Reviews
Sifa Elizabeth Reads · Sifa Elizabeth · 2024-03-06
good 4.50

The reviewer enjoys the book's hard science fiction elements and its deep roots in actual science. They find the narrative engaging and appreciate the detailed exploration of scientific concepts.

Sifa Elizabeth highlights that The Three-Body Problem is a hard science fiction novel, which she particularly enjoys. She appreciates the book's deep roots in actual science, noting that most of the novel is grounded in real scientific principles. Elizabeth finds the narrative engaging and the exploration of scientific concepts detailed and thought-provoking. She also mentions that the audiobook version enhances the reading experience, making complex ideas more accessible.

Quick quotes

    This is a hard science fiction novel, which is something I really enjoy.

    I liked books deeply rooted in actual science, and most of this book is ...

    The audiobook version enhances the reading experience, making complex ideas more accessible.

Words and Peace · 2022-01-15
brilliant 4.25

The reviewer finds the book rich in background and ultimate message, appreciating its layered storytelling and deep themes.

The reviewer from Words and Peace notes that The Three-Body Problem is extremely rich in its background and ultimate message. They appreciate the novel's layered storytelling, which is characteristic of Cixin Liu's work. The reviewer finds the book's exploration of complex themes and its ability to convey deep messages through intricate narratives particularly noteworthy. They highlight the novel's depth and the way it challenges readers to think critically about the themes presented.

Quick quotes

    The book is extremely rich in its background and in its ultimate message.

    It contains many layers, as apparently usual in Cixin Liu's novels.

    The novel's exploration of complex themes and its ability to convey deep messages through intricate narratives is particularly noteworthy.

Andrew Liptak · Andrew Liptak · 2018-10-15
intriguing 4.00

The reviewer appreciates the book's straightforward narrative within the trilogy and its unique blend of historical and scientific elements. They highlight the novel's ability to balance complex ideas with engaging storytelling.

Andrew Liptak finds The Three-Body Problem to be the most accessible entry in the trilogy, particularly for those new to Liu Cixin's work. He praises the novel's ability to weave together historical events, such as the Cultural Revolution, with advanced scientific concepts like quantum mechanics. Liptak notes that the book's setting in both modern-day UK and 1970s China adds depth and cultural richness. The reviewer also appreciates the way the novel sets up the overarching themes that continue through the trilogy, making it a compelling start to a larger narrative.

Quick quotes

    The Three-Body Problem is the most straight-forward of the trilogy.

    The novel's setting in both modern-day UK and 1970s China adds depth and cultural richness.

    The book's ability to weave together historical events with advanced scientific concepts is impressive.

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