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tashenone's review against another edition
5.0
Once Upon a Time … in Robot Land
A whimsical yet dark collection of Sci-Fi stories told in a fairytale format. A unique idea that worked better than it had any right to even though one had to trudge through a hearty helping of gobbledygook along the way (Lem did not skimp on the made up words). This collection forced one to contemplate the legacy of mankind when humanity’s inevitable departure from this mortal coil finally comes to fruition. Mortal Engines poses an impactful twofold question; Will our metal creations be all we leave behind? And, if so, will they inherit the singular trait that truly makes us human which of course is storytelling? Lem’s philosophical and layered approach to his writing is on full display here and is an excellent showcase of his creative genius.
A whimsical yet dark collection of Sci-Fi stories told in a fairytale format. A unique idea that worked better than it had any right to even though one had to trudge through a hearty helping of gobbledygook along the way (Lem did not skimp on the made up words). This collection forced one to contemplate the legacy of mankind when humanity’s inevitable departure from this mortal coil finally comes to fruition. Mortal Engines poses an impactful twofold question; Will our metal creations be all we leave behind? And, if so, will they inherit the singular trait that truly makes us human which of course is storytelling? Lem’s philosophical and layered approach to his writing is on full display here and is an excellent showcase of his creative genius.
ztaylor4's review against another edition
3.0
Despite some fun stories, this collection suffered from problems that felt inherent to the experimental format of the robotic fable. Even when a story is successful as an example of what a robotic creation myth might sound like, that story isn't necessarily a compelling read. While appreciating the stories, I sometimes felt like I had read too many alternatives fables without the takeaways of traditional fables.
The last two stories are almost novellas and a break from the fable format. While I liked reading them,.
I'd give this book a 3.5 if I could, and some stories rose to the level of 4's, but none felt like must-reads. The translation felt very natural, and I'd give it a 5, although I haven't read other editions.
The last two stories are almost novellas and a break from the fable format. While I liked reading them,
Spoiler
their endings both felt anti-climacticI'd give this book a 3.5 if I could, and some stories rose to the level of 4's, but none felt like must-reads. The translation felt very natural, and I'd give it a 5, although I haven't read other editions.
lassair's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
kalevala's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
jorgefernandez's review against another edition
2.0
Después del [b:El profesor A. Dońda. De las memorias de Ijon Tichy|58347030|El profesor A. Dońda. De las memorias de Ijon Tichy|Stanisław Lem|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1633335866l/58347030._SY75_.jpg|25379490] y de estas fábulas creo que, definitivamente, Lem no es para mi... Aún tengo Solaris en mi pila de pendientes, volveré a tomarme un tiempo prudencial para intentarlo.
scallywag316's review against another edition
1.0
A solid 2.5 but the stars were not there. It is not my usual genre but thought I what the hay...alas this book let me down. I will not toss in my tie dye towel just yet. As there are many more books to read and authors of this genre to explore.
Wish me luck!
Wish me luck!