Back to winners
Cover of The Three-Body Problem by Cixin Liu (Chinese)*[g]

The Three-Body Problem

by Cixin Liu (Chinese)*[g]

This novel challenges readers with its deep scientific concepts and philosophical questions.

Difficulty

Challenging

Pace

Measured

Mood

thought-provoking, complex

Book club

High

Find in a library

Is this book for you?

Read this if you enjoy

  • intricate world-building
  • you appreciate philosophical dilemmas
  • you like hard science fiction

Consider another book if

  • you prefer straightforward narratives
  • you dislike scientific concepts
  • you seek light reading

What it is about

"The Three-Body Problem" follows a physicist named Ye Wenjie who, disillusioned by humanity, makes contact with an alien civilization. The story alternates between her past during the Cultural Revolution and a present-day virtual game called "Three Body." The game simulates the challenges faced by an alien world with an unstable three-sun system.

Players engage in strategies to survive the unpredictable environment of the alien planet. Meanwhile, a secret organization on Earth, the Earth-Trisolaris Organization, seeks to invite the aliens to invade. As tensions rise, various characters grapple with the implications of first contact.

The narrative explores themes of science, philosophy, and the nature of civilization. The book delves into the consequences of technological advancement and existential risk. It raises questions about trust, betrayal, and the future of humanity.

Ultimately, it sets the stage for a broader conflict between Earth and the alien Trisolarians.

Award recognition

2015 winner

Hugo Award for Best Novel

United States

View the winners list: Hugo

Reader comments

Loading comments…

Share your view

Comments are reviewed before publication. Links and HTML are not accepted.