35 pages • 1 hour read
Ubik
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Summary and Study Guide
Overview
Ubik is a science-fiction novel published in 1969 by the American writer Philip K. Dick. Set in 1992, the book exists in a future in which telepathy has emerged as a common tool for corporate espionage. Moreover, technology exists that allows the recently deceased to be suspended for long periods of time in a state of hibernation known as “half-life.” Among other accolades, Time magazine selected Ubik as one of the 100 greatest novels published between 1923 and 2009.
Plot Summary
Glen Runciter is a powerful executive for a corporation that employs “inertials,” individuals who are capable of negating the powers of telepaths or “psis.” His company generally works on behalf of clients seeking to combat corporate espionage. The company’s chief competition is an organization of powerful telepaths led by Ray Hollis. Meanwhile, Runciter’s wife, Ella, is stored at a futuristic moratorium in “half-life.” Though she is dead, her consciousness lives on and can be spoken to occasionally. However, Jory, a fellow half-lifer, regularly interferes with her. Jory and Ella are both considerably worried about the sudden disappearance of a number of telepaths.
Joe Chip, who works as a tester for Runciter, discovers a powerful anti-psychic talent: Unlock all 35 pages of this Study Guide Plus, gain access to 8,900+ more expert-written Study Guides. Including features:
Related Titles
By Philip K. Dick
