Re-read Anathem (3rd time), which as good a place as any to re-start my attempts to review some books:
The more I read this book the better it gets. I still cannot believe the publishers allowed Neal to print a book that basically is a philosophy primer, with all the names changed.
It is brilliant.
The world, the characters, the plot are all absolutely original. The fact that 'humans' actually turn up later in the book only adds to the power of the novel. The book begins focused on a tiny 'monestary' in the North, and ends encompassing the entire world within which it is based.
Their are moments of typical Neal Stpehenson 'geek' humour, and just as many challenging thoughts (you will need to read the book at least twice).
The language requires a bit of work, and I did not realise there was a glossary at the back of the book at first. This is a necessity if you are to being to follow the complex world.
One of the best things I have every read.
And amazingly for Neal Stephenson, probably the best ending for him since 'The Big U'.
Quality 5/5
Readibility 4.5/5
