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The State Of The Art

Series: Culture
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( 19,387 ratings, 889 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The State of the Art by Iain M. Banks is a collection of short stories set in the Culture universe, exploring themes of advanced societies, human nature, and the impact of technology. The titular novella delves into a mission to Earth, pondering humanity's place in the galaxy amidst the influence of a utopian civilisation. With a mix of wit and philosophical insight, it offers a compelling glimpse into Banks's imaginative worlds.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy exploring thought-provoking science fiction narratives that delve into the complexities of advanced societies and cultures. You might like this book if you are intrigued by stories that challenge perceptions of utopia through imaginative storytelling and rich philosophical insights, all set within a compelling spacefaring universe.

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The State Of The Art

A stunning new reissue edition of The State of the Art - a collection of short stories of stunning power and awesome imagination, from the modern master of science fiction, Iain M. Banks

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The works of Iain M. Banks have forever changed the face of modern science fiction. With breathtaking imagination and extraordinary storytelling, they have secured his reputation as one of the most extraordinary and influential writers in the genre.

'Banks is a phenomenon' β€” William Gibson

The State of the Art is the only collection of Iain M. Banks's short fiction and includes the acclaimed Culture novella of the same name.

From science fiction to horror, dark fantasy to twisted comedy, all eight stories bear the indefinable stamp of Banks's staggering talent.

Praise for the novels of Iain M. Banks:

'Epic in scope, ambitious in its ideas and absorbing in its execution' β€” Independent on Sunday

'Banks has created one of the most enduring and endearing visions of the future' β€” Guardian

'Jam-packed with extraordinary invention' β€” Scotsman

'Compulsive reading' β€” Sunday Telegraph

The novels of Iain M. Banks:

The Culture series

Consider Phlebas

The Player of Games

Use of Weapons

Excession

Inversions

Look to Windward

Matter

Surface Detail

The Hydrogen Sonata

The State of the Art

Other books by Iain M. Banks:

Against a Dark Background

Feersum Endjinn

The Algebraist

Also now available:

The Culture: The Drawings β€” an extraordinary collection of original illustrations faithfully reproduced from sketchbooks Banks kept in the 1970s and 80s, depicting the ships, habitats, geography, weapons and language of Banks' Culture series of novels in incredible detail.

Series: Culture

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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The State of the Art by Iain M. Banks is praised for its creative energy and elegant storytelling. Banks is known for his unique blend of imaginative science fiction and literary style, eliciting enthusiasm from fans and critics alike. Reviews highlight his ability to craft works that are poetic, humorous, and thrilling, and there's a keen anticipation for his contributions to British sci-fi.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780356521664

Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 30 November 2023

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Orbit

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 24.0mm

Width: 126.0mm

Height: 196.0mm

Weight: 180g

Pages: 224

About the Author

Iain Banks (1954-2013) came to widespread and controversial public notice with the publication of his first novel, The Wasp Factory, in 1984. Consider Phlebas, his first science fiction novel, was published under the name Iain M. Banks in 1987 and began his celebrated ten-book Culture series. He is acclaimed as one of the most powerful, innovative and exciting writers of his generation.

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