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3.92 AVERAGE
3.92 AVERAGE
This particular review will be different when compared to the other reviews I’ve done. This difference is due to the copy of the book I read, which included the short novels Roadside Picnic and Tale of the Troika. I will review both separately, though the suggestions given at the end will be for both. As a whole, I can safely say that they are both very enjoyable books, and I’d easily recommend both novels to science fiction fans, and perhaps to those that enjoy Russian literature. Overall, I’d rate both books with 5 out of 5 stars. Both of the books left me wanting more of each world. For a more detailed account of my thoughts and comments then please read below, though there might be some minor spoilers detailed throughout.
Roadside Picnic
Overall thoughts
This novel is a fantastic and very original way addressing an alien visitation. Rather than exploring the visitation itself, the authors decide to explore the aftermath of the visit of these extraterrestrial beings, leaving most of it to our imagination. The language and the descriptions build up an incredibly dark setting with a very somber mood, which fits the context of the story quite well. The characters are also very adequate to the tone and mood set by the authors.
Plot, themes, and characters
In a few words, as mentioned previously, the story is set a few years after an extraterrestrial visitation. While it is mentioned that there are several locations to which the aliens arrived, the story focuses mostly on one area. These areas that were visited by the aliens are referred to as Zones. In these Zones, there are strange artifacts that can be found, which have inexplicable or unusual behavior and characteristics. Due to their strangeness, they are quite valuable outside of the zones. While there are scientists trying to understand these items, there are also those that smuggle them out of the Zones and sell them outside in the black market. These smugglers are known as Stalkers. For the most part, the book follows one of these Stalkers, who is known as Red.
The first theme or element in the book is that of the Zones and the items found within them. These Zones are described in a way that makes them seem very surreal and dreamlike. In my opinion, this degree of surrealism makes the Zones much more interesting. Furthermore, there are indications or hints that point to each Zone having peculiar characteristics and items. While these differences are not explored in the book, the indication or mention of these differences add a level of depth or potential lore to the book; it also unleashes the creativity of the readers and allows them to imagine the world as a whole, rather than just what the authors describe. The items themselves are also quite interesting, some of them being much more useful than others, while others are outright dangerous. The discovery of these new items is very intriguing. There is also indications that there might be beings living within these zones or some strange beings existing because of them.
There is also the theme of the Stalkers and the black market. Naturally, the book explores the reasons that drive individuals to become and remain as Stalkers, which is not an easy feat according to the novel. There is a brief description and exploration of how the black market, or at least a part of it, operates. Furthermore, the interaction and dynamics between Stalkers are also explored. They seem to have their own set of codes and behavior, very much like criminals in the modern world. These interactions add a layer of complexity to the characters and depth to the novel.
Another issue is that of the presence of authority, be it scientific, military, or other governmental forces. Throughout the book, we are shown the ways in which the government attempts to control the Zones. One such attempt is by controlling who is allowed to enter. However, due to events described in the book, the authorities are also forced to control the immigration of the people that have lived near these zones. Not all of the authority is shown as a way of control, however, since there is also the presence of the scientific community. In this regard, however, they are mostly present in order to research the Zones and the items found within them. For the most part, the scientists don’t seem to have much power, control, or say on things.
Lastly, there is the aspect of the characters. While there are several themes that could be relevant to them, such as the views on family, the role of community, and the overall social dynamics, they are not as detailed nor as explicit as the previous ones. Overall, the characters all seem to have very distinct personalities and have varied behavior traits. They are all very believable and realistic. There’s also a mixture of likable and unlikable characters, though this makes sense in regards to the events of the book.
Narration and use of language
The type of narrator changes throughout the book. Furthermore, the focus and perspectives also change with each chapter. For the most part, the chapters are written in a first person perspective, belonging to Red. However, there are some chapters which are written as interviews and other chapters focusing on different characters. These changes are easy to follow since the start of every chapter states the character that is being focused on and their age, which gives an idea on how the story is progressing. As stated before, the language used by the authors creates a very dark tone and somber mood, which fits the story quite nicely. Overall, the language and the narration are very easy to follow and are used incredibly well. The authors provide just the proper amount of detail and descriptions to allow the readers to understand what is going on, but also to let room for creativity and imagination based on what is being said.
Tale of the Troika
Overall thoughts
This novel is an incredibly witty and funny approach to satirizing bureaucracy and the overall political environment that can be seen throughout the world. The language used makes the world of this novel seem very surreal and dream-like, though not dark like Roadside Picnic. In fact, the language, the tone, and the mood between the two novels are so different that I’m frankly surprised that the same authors are responsible for both works. The characters are very likable and relatable, despite the satirical and surreal nature of the book. For the most part, the book is very much a jab to politicians, which are mocked and portrayed in ridiculous fashion. There is a surprisingly large amount of things going on and a very big world being built in such a little amount of pages.
Plot, themes, and characters
In a few words, the story takes place within the Edifice of Knowledge, which appears to be a building that magically grows as knowledge in society is acquired. The building grew so much that at some point, the installation of an elevator was required. This elevator, however, mysteriously can’t go past the thirteenth floor. The book starts with this changing, with the two protagonists, Eddie Amperian and Alex Privalov, being sent to the 76th floor in order to recover certain artifacts that their departments one. There are rumors about what can be found in the different upper floors, which add to the mysticism, surrealism, and overall creativity of the novel. For instance, there is mention that there is a race of alchemists living on the 230th floor or that there is an old man living on the shore of the blue sea with his wife and goldfish on the 1017th floor. These rumors allow the readers to imagine what else can be found on the different floors, and even to wonder whether there is any limit or if the building just grows indefinitely. The majority of the story, however, is set on the 76th floor, in a series of cases that are dealt with by the Troika.
The main theme naturally involves the Troika, bureaucracy, and the political system. The Troika is an attempt to satirize and mock the bureaucratic procedures that government systems have set in place, primarily those of a democratic nature. The different members of the Troika can be seen as representing the different parties in the political spectrum, with some being more conservative than others. There is also a member that represents the scientific community. Depending on the political view of the different members, they either agree or sometimes even completely ignore the views of the scientific expert. The Troika is portrayed as being very jumbled and following illogical bureaucracy. All of the members enjoy blaming each other. For those that are not involved in politics, this outside view can be quite representative, which makes the satire much more enjoyable. Throughout the novel, we are exposed to different arguments and beliefs of the Troika. For instance, some of the members claim that they don’t need an education to be intelligent and well-read, which is a trait that can be found in certain politicians across the globe. There is also a discussion of what is a lie or a falsehood compared to what is a truth or a fact, with each political view having different definitions. Since the story follows Pavlov and Eddie, we are also exposed to the views of individuals that are external to the political system. In this regard, some of the perspectives that we are offered are that it is impossible to appeal to the rational side of politicians, that they have no humanity, and that they are quite hypocritical or two-faced.
A minor theme is the use of supernatural, paranormal, surreal, or otherwise extinct creatures. Due to the nature of the building, it follows that the existence of these different beings is possible. As soon as the two protagonists arrive at the 76th floor, they meet the Abominable Snowman. He isn’t the only supernatural being that we are exposed to. For instance, there’s a talking bedbug, a visitor from outer space called Konstantin, a pterodactyl, among many others. The use of these beings and entities enhances the dream-like mood of the book and it adds to the overall absurdity of the novel. In my opinion, they make it much more enjoyable, especially considering that the Troika discusses cases involving some of these beings. For instance, they argue a case dealing with the pterodactyl, with one of the Troika members arguing that he is not convinced and that he believes that this is, in fact, an alligator with wings.
Lastly, there’s the issue of the characters. The characters are all quite memorable and incredibly enjoyable. The interaction between the Troika members with the rest of the characters creates unique and very fun scenarios. These interactions and conversations lead to an incredibly high amount of frustration and disagreement. When compared to those living on the 76th floor, the two protagonists can be seen as quite boring and bland. In my opinion, however, they also have their own personalities and behavioral traits; their presence certainly adds to the events of the book.
Narration and use of language
The novel is narrated in a first person perspective, with the narrator being Alex Privalov. Since he hasn’t been exposed to the unbelievable things that are found in the upper levels in the building, as readers, we experience them at the same time as he does so, which adds a degree of realism and a way to relate to the character. It is also easy to understand his frustration with the rest of the characters or with some of the events that transpire. The language is very easy to follow. The novel is structured in different cases, which adds a level of realism to the novel. It also provides opportunities to experience the views and behavior of the individuals of the Troika in different contexts. As mentioned, the language is very different from that of the previous book, though the mood and style also create a dream-like and surreal scenario.
Recommendations and suggestions for further reading
As mentioned above, I’d easily recommend this book for those that like science fiction. To some degree, I would also recommend it to those that like speculative fiction, mostly Roadside Picnic in this regard. On the other hand, I’d recommend Tale of the Troika to those that like dystopian novels and political satires. I also have a few suggestions for those that have read this book and are looking for something else to read. In terms of tone and style, for those that liked Roadside Picnic, I would recommend The Child Garden by Geoff Ryman. I would also recommend The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood. For those that enjoyed Tale of the Troika, then I would suggest Catch-22 by Joseph Heller.
Thanks for reading my review(s)!
Roadside Picnic
Overall thoughts
This novel is a fantastic and very original way addressing an alien visitation. Rather than exploring the visitation itself, the authors decide to explore the aftermath of the visit of these extraterrestrial beings, leaving most of it to our imagination. The language and the descriptions build up an incredibly dark setting with a very somber mood, which fits the context of the story quite well. The characters are also very adequate to the tone and mood set by the authors.
Plot, themes, and characters
In a few words, as mentioned previously, the story is set a few years after an extraterrestrial visitation. While it is mentioned that there are several locations to which the aliens arrived, the story focuses mostly on one area. These areas that were visited by the aliens are referred to as Zones. In these Zones, there are strange artifacts that can be found, which have inexplicable or unusual behavior and characteristics. Due to their strangeness, they are quite valuable outside of the zones. While there are scientists trying to understand these items, there are also those that smuggle them out of the Zones and sell them outside in the black market. These smugglers are known as Stalkers. For the most part, the book follows one of these Stalkers, who is known as Red.
The first theme or element in the book is that of the Zones and the items found within them. These Zones are described in a way that makes them seem very surreal and dreamlike. In my opinion, this degree of surrealism makes the Zones much more interesting. Furthermore, there are indications or hints that point to each Zone having peculiar characteristics and items. While these differences are not explored in the book, the indication or mention of these differences add a level of depth or potential lore to the book; it also unleashes the creativity of the readers and allows them to imagine the world as a whole, rather than just what the authors describe. The items themselves are also quite interesting, some of them being much more useful than others, while others are outright dangerous. The discovery of these new items is very intriguing. There is also indications that there might be beings living within these zones or some strange beings existing because of them.
There is also the theme of the Stalkers and the black market. Naturally, the book explores the reasons that drive individuals to become and remain as Stalkers, which is not an easy feat according to the novel. There is a brief description and exploration of how the black market, or at least a part of it, operates. Furthermore, the interaction and dynamics between Stalkers are also explored. They seem to have their own set of codes and behavior, very much like criminals in the modern world. These interactions add a layer of complexity to the characters and depth to the novel.
Another issue is that of the presence of authority, be it scientific, military, or other governmental forces. Throughout the book, we are shown the ways in which the government attempts to control the Zones. One such attempt is by controlling who is allowed to enter. However, due to events described in the book, the authorities are also forced to control the immigration of the people that have lived near these zones. Not all of the authority is shown as a way of control, however, since there is also the presence of the scientific community. In this regard, however, they are mostly present in order to research the Zones and the items found within them. For the most part, the scientists don’t seem to have much power, control, or say on things.
Lastly, there is the aspect of the characters. While there are several themes that could be relevant to them, such as the views on family, the role of community, and the overall social dynamics, they are not as detailed nor as explicit as the previous ones. Overall, the characters all seem to have very distinct personalities and have varied behavior traits. They are all very believable and realistic. There’s also a mixture of likable and unlikable characters, though this makes sense in regards to the events of the book.
Narration and use of language
The type of narrator changes throughout the book. Furthermore, the focus and perspectives also change with each chapter. For the most part, the chapters are written in a first person perspective, belonging to Red. However, there are some chapters which are written as interviews and other chapters focusing on different characters. These changes are easy to follow since the start of every chapter states the character that is being focused on and their age, which gives an idea on how the story is progressing. As stated before, the language used by the authors creates a very dark tone and somber mood, which fits the story quite nicely. Overall, the language and the narration are very easy to follow and are used incredibly well. The authors provide just the proper amount of detail and descriptions to allow the readers to understand what is going on, but also to let room for creativity and imagination based on what is being said.
Tale of the Troika
Overall thoughts
This novel is an incredibly witty and funny approach to satirizing bureaucracy and the overall political environment that can be seen throughout the world. The language used makes the world of this novel seem very surreal and dream-like, though not dark like Roadside Picnic. In fact, the language, the tone, and the mood between the two novels are so different that I’m frankly surprised that the same authors are responsible for both works. The characters are very likable and relatable, despite the satirical and surreal nature of the book. For the most part, the book is very much a jab to politicians, which are mocked and portrayed in ridiculous fashion. There is a surprisingly large amount of things going on and a very big world being built in such a little amount of pages.
Plot, themes, and characters
In a few words, the story takes place within the Edifice of Knowledge, which appears to be a building that magically grows as knowledge in society is acquired. The building grew so much that at some point, the installation of an elevator was required. This elevator, however, mysteriously can’t go past the thirteenth floor. The book starts with this changing, with the two protagonists, Eddie Amperian and Alex Privalov, being sent to the 76th floor in order to recover certain artifacts that their departments one. There are rumors about what can be found in the different upper floors, which add to the mysticism, surrealism, and overall creativity of the novel. For instance, there is mention that there is a race of alchemists living on the 230th floor or that there is an old man living on the shore of the blue sea with his wife and goldfish on the 1017th floor. These rumors allow the readers to imagine what else can be found on the different floors, and even to wonder whether there is any limit or if the building just grows indefinitely. The majority of the story, however, is set on the 76th floor, in a series of cases that are dealt with by the Troika.
The main theme naturally involves the Troika, bureaucracy, and the political system. The Troika is an attempt to satirize and mock the bureaucratic procedures that government systems have set in place, primarily those of a democratic nature. The different members of the Troika can be seen as representing the different parties in the political spectrum, with some being more conservative than others. There is also a member that represents the scientific community. Depending on the political view of the different members, they either agree or sometimes even completely ignore the views of the scientific expert. The Troika is portrayed as being very jumbled and following illogical bureaucracy. All of the members enjoy blaming each other. For those that are not involved in politics, this outside view can be quite representative, which makes the satire much more enjoyable. Throughout the novel, we are exposed to different arguments and beliefs of the Troika. For instance, some of the members claim that they don’t need an education to be intelligent and well-read, which is a trait that can be found in certain politicians across the globe. There is also a discussion of what is a lie or a falsehood compared to what is a truth or a fact, with each political view having different definitions. Since the story follows Pavlov and Eddie, we are also exposed to the views of individuals that are external to the political system. In this regard, some of the perspectives that we are offered are that it is impossible to appeal to the rational side of politicians, that they have no humanity, and that they are quite hypocritical or two-faced.
A minor theme is the use of supernatural, paranormal, surreal, or otherwise extinct creatures. Due to the nature of the building, it follows that the existence of these different beings is possible. As soon as the two protagonists arrive at the 76th floor, they meet the Abominable Snowman. He isn’t the only supernatural being that we are exposed to. For instance, there’s a talking bedbug, a visitor from outer space called Konstantin, a pterodactyl, among many others. The use of these beings and entities enhances the dream-like mood of the book and it adds to the overall absurdity of the novel. In my opinion, they make it much more enjoyable, especially considering that the Troika discusses cases involving some of these beings. For instance, they argue a case dealing with the pterodactyl, with one of the Troika members arguing that he is not convinced and that he believes that this is, in fact, an alligator with wings.
Lastly, there’s the issue of the characters. The characters are all quite memorable and incredibly enjoyable. The interaction between the Troika members with the rest of the characters creates unique and very fun scenarios. These interactions and conversations lead to an incredibly high amount of frustration and disagreement. When compared to those living on the 76th floor, the two protagonists can be seen as quite boring and bland. In my opinion, however, they also have their own personalities and behavioral traits; their presence certainly adds to the events of the book.
Narration and use of language
The novel is narrated in a first person perspective, with the narrator being Alex Privalov. Since he hasn’t been exposed to the unbelievable things that are found in the upper levels in the building, as readers, we experience them at the same time as he does so, which adds a degree of realism and a way to relate to the character. It is also easy to understand his frustration with the rest of the characters or with some of the events that transpire. The language is very easy to follow. The novel is structured in different cases, which adds a level of realism to the novel. It also provides opportunities to experience the views and behavior of the individuals of the Troika in different contexts. As mentioned, the language is very different from that of the previous book, though the mood and style also create a dream-like and surreal scenario.
Recommendations and suggestions for further reading
As mentioned above, I’d easily recommend this book for those that like science fiction. To some degree, I would also recommend it to those that like speculative fiction, mostly Roadside Picnic in this regard. On the other hand, I’d recommend Tale of the Troika to those that like dystopian novels and political satires. I also have a few suggestions for those that have read this book and are looking for something else to read. In terms of tone and style, for those that liked Roadside Picnic, I would recommend The Child Garden by Geoff Ryman. I would also recommend The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood. For those that enjoyed Tale of the Troika, then I would suggest Catch-22 by Joseph Heller.
Thanks for reading my review(s)!
adventurous
challenging
informative
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
I only read half the book since I was only interested in reading Roadside Picnic. This was definitely an odd little story with some real great ideas. I think that by taking the slower and less action oriented approach to the story, the authors were able to explore the greater effects the Zone had on people besides being in the thick of it. I liked the intergenerational angle taken in regards to the Zone's effects, such as the father coming back as a harmless zombie and the daughter being born as a monkey-like creature. The items being drawn from the zone were also intriguing, given the fact that they were given different names by the general populace and scientists. I also liked that they were clearly otherworldly and people struggled to understand them, yet still used them for progress but without deep consideration of cost. I was a bit disappointed with how slow the book was though. I can imagine this story as being one that may have influenced Vandermeer in the writing of the Annihilation series. Feels a bit like a precursor to it.
As this is two separate stories, I'm going to have to split my review to look at them separately. Although both are great.
Roadside Picnic is a slow-paced and thoughtful work, concerning itself with what being human is in the face of the unimaginably different. None of the characters are really "good" and none are really "bad" (well, one might be). They're all looking out for themselves, and maybe one or two others along the way. The influence this story must have had on the Southern Reach trilogy is immense - it's not a perfect 1-for-1 by any means, but so much of Picnic feels familiar if you've already read that trilogy. If you're up for some weird, in a way that won't leave you feeling quite as gutted as the Southern Reach can - well, this is your book.
Tale of the Troika was like watching the Mad Hatter and March Hare run a Soviet bureaucracy. It was ridiculous, it was over the top, it was funny, and at times almost frustrating. So many of the character are clearly insane, and they pull you in with them, until you find yourself looking forward to the next absolute nonsense they're going to spew. It's a fun story in its own right, but coming after Roadside Picnic made it a nice salve as well. Just be ready to be unbalanced by the end of the first page, and never really finding your balance again.
Roadside Picnic is a slow-paced and thoughtful work, concerning itself with what being human is in the face of the unimaginably different. None of the characters are really "good" and none are really "bad" (well, one might be). They're all looking out for themselves, and maybe one or two others along the way. The influence this story must have had on the Southern Reach trilogy is immense - it's not a perfect 1-for-1 by any means, but so much of Picnic feels familiar if you've already read that trilogy. If you're up for some weird, in a way that won't leave you feeling quite as gutted as the Southern Reach can - well, this is your book.
Tale of the Troika was like watching the Mad Hatter and March Hare run a Soviet bureaucracy. It was ridiculous, it was over the top, it was funny, and at times almost frustrating. So many of the character are clearly insane, and they pull you in with them, until you find yourself looking forward to the next absolute nonsense they're going to spew. It's a fun story in its own right, but coming after Roadside Picnic made it a nice salve as well. Just be ready to be unbalanced by the end of the first page, and never really finding your balance again.
Un libro muy curioso y con una muy imaginativa visita alienígena. No le doy otra estrella por culpa de la narración que me ha parecido un poco caótica
La primera parte es buenísima, luego pega un bajón porque siento que no es capaz de mantener el interés en la narración fuera de la Zona y el final vuelve ser brutal, aunque demasiado rápido y caótico.
Pero toda la intensidad de la primera parte es una gozada.
Pero toda la intensidad de la primera parte es una gozada.
I have to admit, I'd much rather watch the Tarkovsky film based on this novel ("Stalker"; it's really excellent).
3.5 stars -
Roadside Picnic was recommended to me by a friend and coworker. I really enjoyed it even though it lost me for about a chapter.
Tale of the Troika however was very different - I found myself lost in it's rabbit hole of a story line and couldn't make much sense of it. Though I somehow still ended up enjoying most of the wild ride that is this other-dimensional story.
Two very unique reads by the same two authors. Both interesting and strange in their own right.
Roadside Picnic was recommended to me by a friend and coworker. I really enjoyed it even though it lost me for about a chapter.
Tale of the Troika however was very different - I found myself lost in it's rabbit hole of a story line and couldn't make much sense of it. Though I somehow still ended up enjoying most of the wild ride that is this other-dimensional story.
Two very unique reads by the same two authors. Both interesting and strange in their own right.
Two stories in one binding. Possibly a novelette and a short story? Roadside Picnic is a bit famous. It is the source for the classic Russian scifi movie Stalker (which I haven't seen yet). This is a fascinating story about life among the leftovers resulting from an brief alien visitation. The other story is a type of fantasy or speculation about out of control bureaucracy. It is entertaining in a similar way as Douglas Adams.
So I just read Tale of the Troika.
I don't know how I feel about it. I know stuff went over my head. Perhaps if I knew more about communist russia?
I don't know how I feel about it. I know stuff went over my head. Perhaps if I knew more about communist russia?