2001: A Space Odyssey
By Arthur C. Clarke
- Release Date: 1968-01-01
- Genre: High Tech Sci-Fi
Description
The classic science fiction novel that captures and expands on the vision of Stanley Kubrick’s immortal film—and changed the way we look at the stars and ourselves.
From the savannas of Africa at the dawn of mankind to the rings of Saturn as man ventures to the outer rim of our solar system, 2001: A Space Odyssey is a journey unlike any other.
This allegory about humanity’s exploration of the universe—and the universe’s reaction to humanity—is a hallmark achievement in storytelling that follows the crew of the spacecraft Discovery as they embark on a mission to Saturn. Their vessel is controlled by HAL 9000, an artificially intelligent supercomputer capable of the highest level of cognitive functioning that rivals—and perhaps threatens—the human mind.
Grappling with space exploration, the perils of technology, and the limits of human power, 2001: A Space Odyssey continues to be an enduring classic of cinematic scope.
Reviews
Thought provoking and awe inspiring
5By gaubruielOne of my top favorite novels of all time, and I say that as a reluctant fiction reader. After years of revisiting the masterpiece of a film Kubrick gifted us just so I could induce that unfailing sense of awe and bodily transcendence I felt when first witnessing the spectacular sequences, I decided it was time to read the book. Boy was I happy I did it. I consumed it in two sittings. The writing is crisp and concise; hasn’t aged at all for me. And Clarke’s descriptions are simply superb. I felt like I was floating in space with Dave, Frank, Hal and the rest of the crew. When I closed the book, I had to take a long pause just to shake the feeling of awesomeness that infiltrated my mind and permeated my body. Left me with a sense of wonder about my place in the universe I hadn’t experienced since childhood. Highly recommend it for anyone who is curious about their place in existence and the role human consciousness can play in this infinite question that is our universe.A predecessor
5By vijaykrishnnI have not watched the movie. This book was a wonderful experience, traveling through space time. I can see how this could have inspired many space faring movies. The book starts before the dawn of civilization and takes us in a journey through an unexpected discovery on the moon, from there to the far flung of the solar system and beyond. Now, I am ready to watch the movie.Such a great book
5By snake-coopFrom start to finish this sure was a heck of a ride lemme tell ya that.One of the all time greats
5By RobertCainEasily one of the foundational tales in my life. I read this as a child and have read it several times since. My interpretation of events has changed as I grew older and I am able to enjoy the book and movie independently. HAL and Dave are amazing characters who’s conflict is founded in misunderstanding and misaligned goals. The lessons this story shares are deeper and broader than the short length would ever seem possible.Unbelievable
5By wunderknightBut believe we must.A Science Fiction Masterpiece
5By DwardengThis book is based on Clarke's screenplay for Kubrick's excellent film. Much from the movie is explained here, but not so much that the wonder and mystery of the unknown is lost. A perfect balancing act by the author.Timeless.
5By nomibird2006Timeless, not dated. I loved all that was in the book that was not in the movie. Moonwatcher was much more developed as was david bowman.
