invisible planets contemporary chinese science fiction in translation

Although the science fiction stories offer fascinating glimpses into the present and future of another culture - including some very poignant social commentary, a hallmark of strong, serious science fiction - they don’t deliver the same pop and engagement as the more fantastic tales do.Ĭoncluding with a few nonfiction pieces about the influence and role of science fiction in China - pieces that might’ve made more impact at the start of the collection - this is a marvelous introduction to a brand new world of sci-fi for many readers. The Contemporary Chinese Science Fiction in Translation book series by multiple authors includes books Invisible Planets: Contemporary Chinese Science. Honestly, the more fantasy-tinged stories outshine the sci-fi, drawing from the rich history and mythology of China to create some wonderful tales about dragon-horses and ghost cities.

To round out the collection, there are several essays from Chinese scholars and authors, plus an illuminating introduction by Ken Liu.'-Jacket.

And it’s an eye-opening collection to be sure. Some have won awards in translation, some have garnered serious critical acclaim, some have been selected for Years Best anthologies, and some are simply Ken Lius personal favorites. Invisible Planets presents a sampling of top efforts from Chinese authors, many available to American readers for the first time. Without Ken Lius translations, lets remember, us anglophone readers wouldnt have these stories in the first place. Gods come to Earth in the form of aliens seeking retirement and care. Different classes are separated by a transforming city. Unfamiliar planets and cultures dazzle a young listener. A woman finds salvation and freedom thanks to a curious ruse. College graduates-turned-soldiers are recruited to kill genetically modified rats.

Invisible planets contemporary chinese science fiction in translation