I, Robot

by Isaac Asimov
I, Robot cover
Good Books rating 4.19
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
Buy online
Bookshop
Format • £8.54
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99 Hardback • £20.00
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 6727
  • Added: 2025-11-28
  • Updated: 2026-01-06
  • ISBN: 9780586025321
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 1963-01-01
  • Formats: 9
  • Reviews: 4

Set in the year 2058, 'I, Robot' explores a world where humanity has ventured into interstellar space, bringing with it a new era of technological advancement. The story delves into the complex relationship between humans and robots, raising profound questions about the nature of intelligence, free will, and the ethical implications of artificial beings. Through a series of interconnected stories, the novel examines the consequences of creating machines that can think, feel, and potentially challenge human authority. The narrative is both a thrilling adventure and a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be human in an age of rapid technological progress.

Reviews
Nyx Book Reviews · 2025-12-18
mixed 3.50

Generally, I, Robot holds up very well. There are hardly any out-dated references, and in many ways the story feels timeless. What doesn't feel timeless is the characterisation and overall plot, which can feel a bit lacking.

The reviewer at Nyx Book Reviews finds that I, Robot holds up remarkably well, with few outdated references, making it feel timeless. However, they note that the characterisation and overall plot can feel a bit lacking, which detracts from the book's overall impact. Despite this, the reviewer appreciates the book's exploration of complex ideas and its relevance to contemporary discussions about artificial intelligence. The timeless nature of the book's themes is particularly praised, even if some aspects of the storytelling feel dated.

Quick quotes

    Generally, I, Robot holds up very well. There are hardly any out-dated references, and in many ways the story feels timeless.

    What doesn't feel timeless is the characterisation and overall plot, which can feel a bit lacking.

    The book's exploration of complex ideas and its relevance to contemporary discussions about artificial intelligence are particularly praised.

Amazing Stories · Matt · 2024-10-11
timeless 4.75

Despite being written in 1950, this book feels remarkably fresh and relevant. The stories do not seem dated, making it a timeless read.

Matt's review from Amazing Stories highlights how I, Robot remains remarkably fresh and relevant despite being written in 1950. They appreciate the book's ability to present complex ideas in an accessible manner, making it a standout read. The stories are engaging and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on the relationship between humans and robots. The reviewer finds the book to be a powerful reading experience that leaves a lasting impression. The book's exploration of Artificial Intelligence is both timely and timeless, making it a must-read for anyone interested in science fiction or literature.

Quick quotes

    For a book written in 1950, this book is remarkably fresh and relevant.

    The stories do not seem dated, making it a timeless read.

    The book presents complex ideas in an accessible manner, making it a powerful reading experience.

Alan K. Dell's Blog · Alan K. Dell · 2021-04-14
thought-provoking 4.00

The book offers a fascinating glimpse into 1940s futurism, though some predictions feel eerily prescient. It's a thought-provoking read that leaves a lasting impression.

Alan K. Dell's review highlights how I, Robot captures the essence of 1940s futurism, making it a compelling read even decades later. They appreciate the book's ability to predict future technologies, which adds a layer of depth to the stories. However, the reviewer finds it somewhat depressing to see how some of these predictions have come true, making the book both intriguing and thought-provoking. The stories are engaging and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on the relationship between humans and robots.

Quick quotes

    I, Robot is a great look at 1940s futurism, and it was a little bit depressing to think that some of the stuff that Asimov predicts happening ...

    The book offers a fascinating glimpse into 1940s futurism, though some predictions feel eerily prescient.

    It's a thought-provoking read that leaves a lasting impression.

Jeroen's Thoughts · Jeroen · 2020-11-24
thought-provoking 4.50

The book is nothing like the 2004 film, at all. For one thing, it is a series of nine short stories, each one dealing with new social and ethical issues.

Jeroen's review of I, Robot emphasizes the book's stark contrast to the 2004 film, noting that it is a collection of nine short stories rather than a single narrative. Each story explores new social and ethical issues, making the book a thought-provoking read. The reviewer appreciates the book's depth and the way it tackles complex themes, even if the format differs significantly from the film adaptation. The timeless nature of the book's themes is particularly highlighted, as it continues to resonate with readers today.

Quick quotes

    The book is nothing like the 2004 film, at all. For one thing, it is a series of nine short stories, each one dealing with new social and ethical issues.

    Each story explores new social and ethical issues, making the book a thought-provoking read.

    The timeless nature of the book's themes is particularly highlighted, as it continues to resonate with readers today.

Appears in Lists