Old Man's War by John Scalzi
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Book Reviews of Old Man's War
Book Review: A Fast Paced and Colorful Read
Summary: 5 Stars
Old Man's War is modern science fiction at its best. In a time where the greatest writers are focusing on pumping out massive space operas with intricate plot lines and thousands of pages of content, John Scalzi gets back to the basics. The protagonist John Perry has nothing more to live for and gets whisked away into an adventure he never thought possible. He goes from an insignificant citizen of Earth to a key figure in the fight for humanity's very existence in a universe full of dangerous aliens and perilous worlds. Scalzi paints an incredible universe that keeps the reader intrigued with a plot that is briskly developed and quick witted dialog. I found myself rooting for Perry the entire story actually feeling for him during certain situations.
If you are a fan of science fiction or a fan of adventure at all, give this book a read.
Book Review: Brilliantly Written, and Action Packed
Summary: 5 Stars
I never thought that a book could have as much action as say, a movie, until I read this book. The action sequences (and I have no qualms calling them that) are described such that you can see visually what is happening while reading the passage. At the time I read this book, it became my favorite science fiction novel, but it has since been surpassed by the sequel to this novel, The Ghost Brigades.
The premise of the book seems realistic despite the futuristic and amazing future described by the author. As the advanced technologies in the setting are being described to the reader, they are also being uncovered to the primary protagonist, further connecting the reader with this character.
This novel is worth it if not for the amazing battles, violence, and technology, then for the characters, premise, and attention to detail.
Book Review: Unique and enjoyable read
Summary: 5 Stars
Scalzi has produced a great blend of science fiction and action while keeping the people at the forefront of the story.
For me, the human aspect really makes the story as 75 year old from earth leave their lives behind for a vague notion of war and youth. The interaction of the people as they move through processing and into battle is what really makes the story. The author has taken an idea, made it seem plausible and dared you to dream about the possibilities.
This is the first book I have ready by John Scalzi, but I will be reading the next two books in the series soon.
The Ghost Brigades
The Last Colony
Book Review: Incredibly enjoyable
Summary: 5 Stars
This is a great piece of writing. It is fun to speculate about what happens to people when they die, and this book gives an interesting possibility (pay attention to the "Ghost Brigades"). It is also fun to speculate about what can happen with biological engineering in the future. The story centers around a really "practical" answer to that...in fact one that could come true by the end of this century.
I recommend you skip the first 50 pages. They are what book-people call "character development", and take place on earth. In fact, it is a boring part of the book. However, once the characters travel into space, everything changes. The adventure starts once the humans reach the "Beanstalk" and slowly become more than they once were. You won't miss a thing by starting anywhere around page 50.
The ending is exquisite!
Book Review: Great Idea, Great Execution. Very Entertaining
Summary: 5 Stars
***Spoiler free Review***
Scalzi writes like the masters of old, but he also incorporates his own style... The result is a modern masterpiece that has a great 'old time' feel and is a great homage to the great works before it.
The writing comes across as real and not 'pretend'. The characters are so well done, the worldbuilding is superb, the dialogue is AMAZING, this book just basically does everything right.
But more importantly, he gives you a phenonmenal story. I don't know how I've gone this long without ever having read Scalzi, but i'm glad i've corrected that problem. He is now in my top ten of best Sci-Fi writers ever and FWIW, i've been reading a book a week for over 20 years.
anyways, this book is a must read, read it cover to cover in two days.