Cyberpunk Reading List

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Gibson, William - Neuromancer
Considered by many to be the defining cyber-punk novel, Gibson’s Neuromancer tells the story of a brilliant hacker who was banned from cyberspace and given a second chance in exchange for undertaking a dangerous mission. This book has become a classic thanks to its vibrant setting, exciting plot, and Gibson’s writing ability.

Murakami, Haruki - Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World
The un-named narrator of the novel has some problems in futuristic Tokyo. His brain has been experimented on by a mad scientist, his consciousness has gone missing, and he is on the run from thugs determined to find out what he knows. Reviewers have praised the book for its inventive and highly-stylized writing and compelling pace.

Effinger, Alec - When Gravity Fails
Marid Audrian is enlisted to track down a crazed killer by a local underworld figure, but must first submit to being “wired”, a process he has long resisted. Audrian must uncover clues and track down the killer before becoming a victim himself. This book has been lauded by other science fiction writers for its excellent writing and dark tone.

Stephenson, Neil - Snow Crash
Hiro Protagonist is a pizza-delivery driver, consummate swordsman, and first-class hacker who must discover the secret behind Snow Crash, a drug that is infecting hackers. As Hiro uncovers clues, he finds himself in the middle of a tangled web of intrigue and danger. Stephenson’s book features well-developed characters, an exciting setting and plot, and a compelling pace.

Various - Mirrorshades: The Cyberpunk Anthology
The short-stories collected in this anthology were hand-picked by veteran cyberpunk author Bruce Sterling. Readers can expect well-written stories which explore a variety of common cyberpunk themes that feature interesting characters and settings without having to commit to a full-length novel.

Shirow, Masamune - Ghost in the Shell
Fans of cyberpunk will find a lot to enjoy in Ghost in the Shell in terms of artwork, compelling pacing, and storyline. The manga graphic novel covers the exploits of the members of Section 9, a public security squad composed of cyborgs and humans, as they try to stop criminals in the year 2029. The manga was later adapted into a full-length anime film version that spawned a sequel and two television series.

Rucker, Rudy V.B. - Software
This is the first book in Rucker’s Ware series. It describes a future where a revolt has taken among a race of artificial life forms, “Boppers”, that threatens to engulf the human race. Reviewers have praised the book’s well-constructed setting, humorous tone, and Rucker’s imaginative writing style.

Cadigan, Pat - Synners
In a world where technology has advanced to the point where it has become difficult to discern between reality and thought, a group of hackers must work together to overcome a virus that threatens their very existence. Readers will enjoy Cadigan’s convincing characters and the book’s compelling pace.

Dick, Philip K. - Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep
This is the novel that inspired the movie Blade Runner. It tells the story of Rick Deckard, a bounty hunter who tracks down and “retires” replicants in a post-apocalyptic San Francisco. Readers will enjoy Dick’s original writing style, the well-developed characters, and the well-detailed setting.

Morgan, Richard - Altered Carbon
Morgan’s novel envisions a world where technology has made it possible to live forever. Humans can have their consciousness downloaded into new bodies, barring damage to their cortical stack. The hero of the story, Takeshi Kovacs lands himself in a sticky situation when he agrees to investigate the murder of a wealthy aristocrat. The novel features a compelling pace, an exciting storyline, and memorable characters.

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Submitted by Steven Hoover, S524: Readers Advisory for Adults course in the School of Library and Information Science at Indiana University.