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36 pages 1 hour read

Solaris

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1961

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Book Brief

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Stanislaw Lem

Solaris

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1961
Book Details
Pages

204

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Solaris Station • Future

Publication Year

1961

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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Super Short Summary

Solaris by Stanislaw Lem follows Dr. Kris Kelvin, an interstellar psychologist, who arrives at a space station orbiting the planet Solaris to study its mysterious, sentient ocean. As scientists attempt to communicate with the ocean, it responds by manifesting physical representations of painful memories, including Kelvin's late wife, Rheya, forcing him to confront unresolved guilt and trauma. The book mentions death by suicide and depicts the aftermath of a suicide attempt.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Melancholic

Dark

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

4.0

119,022 ratings

72%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Stanislaw Lem's Solaris is often praised for its profound philosophical themes and innovative depiction of alien intelligence. Critics commend Lem's exploration of human limitations and self-understanding. However, some readers find the dense scientific jargon and introspective narrative challenging. Overall, Solaris stands out as a thought-provoking classic in science fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Solaris?

Readers who are fascinated by intricate psychological and philosophical questions in a science fiction setting will enjoy Solaris by Stanislaw Lem. Fans of Isaac Asimov's Foundation series or Arthur C. Clarke's 2001: A Space Odyssey will appreciate the novel’s blend of deep existential inquiries and high-concept science fiction.

4.0

119,022 ratings

72%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

204

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Solaris Station • Future

Publication Year

1961

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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