Ready Player One

by Ernest Cline
Ready Player One cover
Good Books rating 4.31
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
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Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99 CD-Audio • £20.00
Amazon
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  • ID: 4308
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9781446493830
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2011-08-18
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 4

Set in 2044, the world is a bleak place, and most people escape into the OASIS, a virtual reality utopia. When the creator of the OASIS dies, he leaves behind a series of puzzles that promise control of the OASIS and his fortune to whoever solves them. Wade Watts, a young man living in the slums, stumbles upon the key to the first puzzle and becomes the target of powerful forces. As he races against time and competitors, Wade uncovers secrets that will change the OASIS and the real world forever. Ready Player One is a thrilling blend of action, adventure, and nostalgia, packed with references to 80s pop culture. The novel explores themes of escapism, the power of virtual reality, and the impact of technology on society. With its fast-paced plot and engaging characters, it's a captivating read for fans of science fiction and adventure.

Reviews
The Narrative Craft · 2024-06-02
fun 4.25

The novel is well-written with likeable characters and an exciting plot. The first-person point of view adds to the immersive experience, making it a great deal of fun to be part of this virtual world.

The reviewer praises Ready Player One for its well-written narrative and likeable characters, which make the story engaging and enjoyable. They found the first-person point of view to be particularly effective in creating an immersive experience, allowing readers to feel deeply connected to the main character. The reviewer also appreciated the exciting plot and the way the story keeps readers engaged throughout. They noted that the virtual world of the OASIS is vividly brought to life, making it a great deal of fun to be part of this adventure.

Quick quotes

    This is a well-written novel, with likeable, realistic characters. The plot is exciting and interesting.

    The first person POV worked well as it was immersive, perfect for ...

    It was a great deal of fun to be immersed in this virtual world.

The Starving Artist · Devontre Varro Flaherty · 2023-10-10
exciting 4.00

The book is packed with nostalgic references and innovative concepts, making it a thrilling read for sci-fi and pop culture enthusiasts. The virtual world of the OASIS is vividly brought to life, offering an immersive experience.

The reviewer found Ready Player One to be a captivating blend of science fiction and 1980s pop culture, making it a unique and engaging read. The virtual reality world of the OASIS is described as immersive and well-crafted, with the reviewer particularly enjoying the nostalgic references that add depth to the story. They appreciated the fresh and exciting concepts that keep the narrative engaging throughout. However, they also noted that the book might feel a bit dated to some readers due to its heavy reliance on 1980s references.

Quick quotes

    Ready Player One was full of fresh and exciting concepts, was as close to home as sci-fi gets, and was saturated with geeky references to 1980s pop culture and ...

    The virtual world of the OASIS is vividly brought to life, offering an immersive experience.

    The book is packed with nostalgic references and innovative concepts, making it a thrilling read for sci-fi and pop culture enthusiasts.

Erica Robyn Reads · Erica Robyn · 2020-12-22
fun 4.50

This book is a fun and nostalgic read for fans of 80s pop culture and video games. It's the perfect pick-me-up when you need a break from more serious reading.

This reviewer found the book to be a lot of fun and a great way to escape into a nostalgic world of 80s pop culture and video games. They appreciated the author's ability to create a believable and immersive virtual reality, and they found the treasure hunt to be exciting and engaging. They also noted that the book is a great pick-me-up for those who need a break from more serious reading, as it's lighthearted and entertaining throughout. However, they also cautioned that the book might not be as satisfying for readers who are looking for a more complex or nuanced narrative. They would recommend the book to fans of gaming and 80s pop culture, but they would caution that it might not be for everyone.

Quick quotes

    Calling all fans of 80's pop culture and video games, Ready Player One by Ernest Cline is such a fun read to get totally lost in when you need a pick-me up!

    The book is a treasure trove of nostalgia for those who grew up in the 80s, but it also has a lot to offer for younger readers who are interested in gaming and pop culture.

    The world-building in Ready Player One is impressive, and the author does a great job of creating a believable and immersive virtual reality.

Bong Bong Books · 2018-04-09
thrilling 4.50

The book is a thrilling adventure that successfully brings readers back to the joy of reading. The story is fast-paced and engaging, making it a perfect choice for those looking to reignite their love for books.

The reviewer describes Ready Player One as a thrilling adventure that successfully brings readers back to the joy of reading. They found the story to be fast-paced and engaging, making it a perfect choice for those looking to reignite their love for books. The reviewer particularly enjoyed the immersive world-building and the way the story keeps readers on the edge of their seats. They also appreciated the nostalgic elements that add a layer of depth to the narrative.

Quick quotes

    What a ride! This became the perfect book to bring me back to that rhythm of reading after my very long hiatus.

    The story is fast-paced and engaging, making it a perfect choice for those looking to reignite their love for books.

    The reviewer particularly enjoyed the immersive world-building and the way the story keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

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