The Windup Girl – Paolo Bacigalupi
Not sure how I came across this book but it sounded interesting as a dystopian, cyberpunk, sci-fi novel, which had won the Hugo award back in 2010. I think I enjoyed it. That’s not much of a review, I know. Loved the world building and settings. Not sure how I feel about the main character’s journey for freedom, who is non-human/bioengineered, which of course explores how a “creature” like her is treated, covering a myriad of social themes and class. It covers bio-terrorism, capitalism (in the form of calories), among others which makes it feel overstuffed with every idea possible. Overall well written, and at times very brutal with sexual violence toward the main character which I don’t know if it was necessary to paint how bleak her journey and life is.
Butcher’s Crossing – John Williams
Butcher’s Crossing kept popping up across top westerns to read so I picked up at the library and I must say, what a great book. The journey of a Harvard grad looking to explore the west, he finds a rag tag group and goes on a buffalo hunt in the west. The villain really is nature and their survival (or not) in this semi coming of age tale, with commentary on capitalism and the expanding west that never felt forced. The pacing, setting, and writing has a flow to it that made it a delight to keep reading. Very much enjoyed it.
Between Two Fires – Christopher Buehlman
Not to be confused with Between Two Ferns, Between Two Fires is an epic journey through plague ridden Europe during the medieval times. A journey with three unexpected characters, the drunk priest, the shamed knight, and orphaned girl. You really end up rooting for each character to find their place and work together. They’re so different in terms of age and place in the world it makes for great conflict, as each searches for their goal, while needing each other to get there. Definitely recommend.
Ghost In The Wires – Kevin Mitnick
Ghost In The Wires follows real world hacker Kevin Mitnick’s journey to becoming one of the most famous hackers back in the 90’s / 2000’s. Starting with hacking phone companies to make free calls, it dives into his ability to not only hack systems but to hack people with social engineering. Very fascinating read with great detail into his more famous exploits. If you’re into hacker history, worth a read.
