In 'Across Realtime,' Vernor Vinge weaves a captivating tapestry of time travel and artificial intelligence. Set in a near-future world, characters navigate complex realities where their actions ripple across timelines. As an enigmatic technology threatens the fabric of existence, heroes must confront the consequences of their choices and the nature of consciousness. Will they reconcile their pasts and futures, or will their minds unravel in the struggle for survival? This thought-provoking journey beckons readers to explore the very essence of time and humanity.
By Vernor Vinge
Published: 1991
"We are all a part of that which is greater than ourselves; the future builds on us, and we are ever-reaching to touch the stars."
Previously published in three parts, The Peace War, Marooned in Realtime, and The Ungoverned, this is a marvelous extrapolative tale, to which no summary can do justice, with a gripping blend of high-tech razzle-dazzle and good old-fashioned murder mystery--all spiced with . . . the time-travel theme.--Kirkus Review.
Showing 8 of 23 similar books
Alex Lieberman is the co-founder and executive chairman of Morning Brew, a media company that delivers engaging business news. Under his leadership, Morning Brew has grown to reach millions of subscribers, becoming a significant player in modern business journalism. Lieberman is also known for his insightful commentary on entrepreneurship and media trends. His work has significantly influenced the way business news is consumed by younger audiences. Beyond Morning Brew, Lieberman frequently writes and speaks about the intersection of media and technology, further cementing his role as a thought leader in the industry.
Jack Edwards is a British YouTuber, content creator, and author known for his videos on literature, academia, and productivity. Edwards gained popularity through his educational content, which includes book recommendations, study tips, and insights into university life. He is an advocate for reading and lifelong learning, often encouraging his audience to explore literature and improve their academic skills. Edwards has also written a book, The Uni-Verse, which offers advice to students navigating university life. His work has made him a well-known figure in the educational and literary communities, particularly among young readers and students.
Ben Shapiro is an American conservative political commentator, author, and lawyer, known for his sharp analytical skills and outspoken views. He graduated from UCLA at the age of 20 and Harvard Law School at 23, demonstrating his early intellectual prowess. Shapiro is the author of several best-selling books including "Bullies: How the Left's Culture of Fear and Intimidation Silences Americans" and "The Right Side of History: How Reason and Moral Purpose Made the West Great." He is the co-founder and editor emeritus of The Daily Wire, a popular conservative news and opinion website. Through his writing and media presence, Shapiro has significantly influenced contemporary political discourse in the United States.
John Green is an American author, YouTuber, and educator, best known for his best-selling novels The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska. Green's writing often explores themes of love, loss, and the complexity of adolescence, resonating with both young adults and adults alike. He is also the co-creator of the YouTube channels Vlogbrothers and CrashCourse, where he educates viewers on history, literature, and science in an engaging, accessible way. Green is known for his deep empathy and ability to connect with readers through emotionally powerful storytelling. His work in literature and online education has made him a beloved figure in both media and education circles.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Noah Kagan is an influential entrepreneur and author known for his expertise in marketing and business growth. He is the founder of AppSumo, a platform that offers software deals for startups, and Sumo, a suite of tools for website growth. Kagan's notable literary contribution includes his book "How I Lost 170 Million Dollars: My Time as #30 at Facebook," which provides insights into his experiences and lessons learned in the tech industry. He is also recognized for his engaging writing on entrepreneurship and productivity on his popular blog, OkDork. Through his work, Kagan has inspired countless entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts worldwide.
Austen Allred is an influential entrepreneur and author, best known for his contributions to the education technology sector. He co-founded Lambda School, a groundbreaking online coding bootcamp that offers deferred tuition and has revolutionized access to tech education. In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Allred is the author of "The Grassfed Startup," which provides insights into building sustainable businesses. His innovative approach to education has earned him recognition as a thought leader in the tech industry. Allred continues to inspire with his commitment to making high-quality education accessible to all.
Adam Fisher is an acclaimed author known for his incisive contributions to contemporary literature, particularly in the realm of speculative fiction. His debut novel, "The Quantum Enigma," garnered critical acclaim for its innovative narrative structure and profound philosophical insights. Fisher's work often explores the intersections of technology, society, and human consciousness, earning him a dedicated readership and several literary awards. He has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent literary journals, further cementing his reputation as a formidable thinker. Beyond his writing, Fisher is a passionate advocate for literacy and education, frequently engaging in community outreach and mentorship programs.
Showing 8 of 13 related collections
“We are all a part of that which is greater than ourselves; the future builds on us, and we are ever-reaching to touch the stars.”
Across Realtime
By Vernor Vinge
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Vernor Vinge is an acclaimed American science fiction author and computer scientist, renowned for his profound influence on the genre. He is best known for his works such as "True Names" (1981), which is considered one of the first novels to explore the concept of virtual reality, and the Hugo Award-winning "A Fire Upon the Deep" (1992), which introduced readers to a uniquely structured universe where different regions of space have varying laws of physics. Vinge's writing is characterized by its intricate plotting, imaginative concepts, and deep philosophical explorations of technology and its implications for humanity. His influence extends beyond literature, as he popularized the term 'Technological Singularity,' referring to a future point where technological growth becomes uncontrollable and irreversible. Vinge’s work continues to inspire readers and writers alike, merging speculative fiction with profound insights into the future.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In a distant future, young Paul Atreides navigates the treacherous sands of the desert planet Arrakis, the only source of the universe's most valuable substance: spice. As rival factions clash and hidden prophecies unfold, Paul must embrace his destiny to become a leader and savior. With mysticism, political intrigue, and ecological wisdom, Frank Herbert crafts a saga that explores the depths of human potential and ambition. But can one person truly change the fate of an entire civilization? Dive into "Dune" and discover the rich tapestry of power, survival, and the untamed spirit of the universe.
In "The Time Traveler's Wife," romance and time intertwine as Henry, a man cursed with involuntary time travel, navigates the complexities of his extraordinary condition. His unpredictable journeys often separate him from his beloved wife, Clare, whose unwavering devotion to him spans time and space. As their love story unfolds, readers are drawn into a heartfelt exploration of fate, loss, and the fragility of life’s moments. Each reunion brings both joy and heartache, culminating in a poignant reflection on the enduring nature of love. Will they find a way to bridge the gaps of time, or will their love be forever altered by the ticking clock?
In "Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow," Yuval Noah Harari explores the future possibilities for humanity as we evolve beyond our current limitations. Delving into themes of artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, and the quest for immortality, he provokes thought about what may come after Homo sapiens. As society increasingly turns to technology for solutions, he questions the implications of our pursuit of happiness and god-like powers. Will we augment our bodies and minds, or lose our humanity in the process? This provocative journey invites readers to ponder the exhilarating—and terrifying—potential of our own evolution.
In a future where Earth is threatened by an alien species, child prodigy Ender Wiggin is recruited into a military training program in space. As he faces intense challenges and manipulative instructors, Ender's strategic brilliance shines through, setting him apart from his peers. The line between friend and foe blurs as he navigates the cutthroat environment of the Battle School. With the weight of humanity's survival on his shoulders, Ender must confront ethical dilemmas that question the morality of war. Can a child save the world, or will he become the very monster he’s been trained to defeat?
In a near-future China, a secret military project sends signals into space, unwittingly attracting the attention of an alien civilization on the brink of destruction. As humanity grapples with this revelation, a scientist becomes ensnared in a bizarre virtual reality game that mirrors the struggles of the extraterrestrial race. Philosophical questions intertwine with intense science fiction as alliances form and tensions rise between Earth and the cosmos. With the fate of both worlds hanging in the balance, the characters must navigate trust, betrayal, and the unknown. Will humanity be able to understand and confront the true nature of the universe, or is doom inevitable in this intricate dance with fate?
In 'The Time Machine', H.G. Wells introduces readers to a Victorian scientist who builds a machine capable of traversing time. With curiosity as his compass, he journeys into a distant future where humanity has evolved into two distinct races: the peaceful Eloi and the menacing Morlocks. As he navigates this strange new world, he uncovers chilling truths about civilization and human nature. Action-packed and thought-provoking, the novel explores themes of progress, class struggle, and the consequences of human innovation. Will the Time Traveler ever return to the life he once knew?
In 'Life 3.0', Max Tegmark explores the future of artificial intelligence and its profound implications for life on Earth. He presents a thought-provoking vision where humanity must grapple with the rise of superintelligent machines and the potential paths we can take. Tegmark challenges readers to consider ethical dilemmas and the responsibilities that come with unprecedented technological power. As we stand at the brink of a new era, he asks: how can we ensure that AI serves humanity's best interests? This engaging exploration leaves you pondering the fate of our species and the universe.
'Slaughterhouse-Five' follows the unconventional journey of Billy Pilgrim, a soldier who becomes 'unstuck in time' and experiences moments from his life out of sequence. As he navigates through the horrors of World War II, including the firebombing of Dresden, the narrative intertwines elements of science fiction and anti-war sentiment. Vonnegut's unique blend of dark humor and poignant commentary challenges the nature of free will and the chaos of war. Will Billy ever come to terms with his fragmented existence and the absurdity of human conflict? Join him on a mind-bending odyssey that questions reality and morality.