52 pages • 1 hour read •
How To Live Safely In a Science Fictional Universe
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Book Brief
How To Live Safely In a Science Fictional Universe
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2010239
Novel • Fiction
•
Fantasy•
Humor•
The Past•
Family2010
Pantheon
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
How To Live Safely In a Science Fictional Universe by Charles Yu is about a mechanic named Charles Yu who repairs time machines in Minor Universe 31, a partially fictional universe. He lives in a TM-31 recreational time travel device with an AI named TAMMY and an imaginary dog, Ed. Yu navigates his life's complexities and searches for his missing father, who disappeared while testing a time machine.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
20,039 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Charles Yu's How To Live Safely In a Science Fictional Universe offers a unique blend of science fiction and existential angst. Reviewers praise its inventive narrative and emotional depth but note that the intricate, nonlinear plot and heavy introspection may challenge some readers. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read that resonates with those seeking literary innovation.
Who Should Read How To Live Safely In a Science Fictional Universe?
Readers who enjoy How To Live Safely In a Science Fictional Universe by Charles Yu are likely fans of quirky, introspective science fiction. They might appreciate the cerebral humor and emotional depth found in Douglas Adams' The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy or the narrative complexity of Kurt Vonnegut's Slaughterhouse-Five.
20,039 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Charles’s Father
Charles’s Father
A visionary who dreamed of perfecting time travel, Charles's father disappears after a professional setback, leaving behind clues for Charles to seek him out.
TAMMY
TAMMY
TAMMY is the user personality interface of the TM-31, chosen by Charles over another interface due to her attractive design; she provides emotional simulations for Charles.
How to Live Safely in a Science Fictional Universe explores a unique concept where language and narrative structure play significant roles in the fabric of time travel, providing readers with an unusual metafictional experience.
The novel was a New York Times Notable Book in 2010, gaining recognition for its inventive storytelling and blending of science fiction with philosophical inquiries.
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Charles Yu, the author, draws on his background in computer science to intricately weave theoretical physics and humor, making the book a critical and engaging read.
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239
Novel • Fiction
•
Fantasy•
Humor•
The Past•
Family2010
Pantheon
Adult
18+ years
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