59 pages • 1 hour read
The Peripheral
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
486
Novel • Fiction
Near-future rural America • 2030s
2014
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Peripheral by William Gibson intertwines two timelines: one in the near future and one in the distant future where protagonist Flynne Fisher fills in for her brother on a security job for what she believes is a game, only to witness a real murder. This event propels her, Burton, and their friends into communication with the future, utilizing time-travel devices called peripherals to solve the crime. The novel contains graphic depictions of violence, murder, and climate catastrophe.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Gritty
Dark
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
42,460 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
William Gibson's The Peripheral has garnered acclaim for its intricate, imaginative world-building and thought-provoking exploration of technology's future impact. However, some readers find the complex narrative and shifting timelines challenging to follow. Overall, it is praised for its originality and relevance but may demand attentive reading for full appreciation.
Who Should Read The Peripheral?
A reader who would enjoy The Peripheral by William Gibson is likely a fan of speculative fiction and cyberpunk genres. They might appreciate intricate, multi-layered narratives akin to William Gibson's earlier works like Neuromancer or Neal Stephenson's Snow Crash. Themes of technology, societal shifts, and dystopian futures will captivate these readers.
42,460 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Wilf Netherton
Wilf Netherton
A conflicted publicist known for embellishing the truth, who harbors a longing for a different world and plays a crucial role in revealing important information to Flynne.
Ainsley Lowbeer
Ainsley Lowbeer
A wise detective with the ability to manipulate situations for good, particularly in investigating mysterious events, using her authority to gather information discreetly.
Burton Fisher
Burton Fisher
A former Marine and the secretive, temper-prone brother of Flynne, who often keeps her in the dark but is actively involved in securing their safety and delivering justice.
486
Novel • Fiction
Near-future rural America • 2030s
2014
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.