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Babel-17

By Samuel R. Delany
Series: S.F. Masterworks
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Check link for latest rating. ( 19,661 ratings, 1,738 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
Babel-17 by Samuel R. Delany is a science fiction novel exploring the power of language. It follows Rydra Wong, a poet tasked with decoding a cryptic language linked to sabotage during an interstellar war. As she delves into its mysteries, she uncovers its profound impact on thought and perception, leading to thrilling discoveries about communication and identity.
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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?

You might enjoy this book if you're intrigued by explorations of language and communication within a science fiction setting. The story beautifully weaves themes of identity and perception, offering a blend of thrilling space adventures and rich philosophical insights. It's particularly appealing to those who appreciate complex narratives and innovative linguistic concepts that challenge how we understand the world.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

In the far future, after human civilisation has spread through the galaxy, communications begin to arrive in an apparently alien language.

They appear to threaten invasion, but in order to counter the threat, the messages must first be understood.

BABEL-17 is the novel which catapulted Samuel R. Delany into the front rank of SF writers.

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

In the far future, after human civilisation has spread through the galaxy, communications begin to arrive in an apparently alien language.

They appear to threaten invasion, but in order to counter the threat, the messages must first be understood.

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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?

Babel-17 by Samuel R. Delany is considered a remarkable masterpiece, praised for its stunning depiction of a star-spanning epic and featuring both mysterious aliens and entirely believable yet strange human characters. This groundbreaking work is noted for its impact on the science fiction genre, altering perceptions of the future.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780575094208

Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 29 March 2010

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Gollancz

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 17.0mm

Width: 131.0mm

Height: 197.0mm

Weight: 184g

Pages: 208

Collections

Fiction General Fiction Samuel R. Delany Sci-Fi & Fantasy Science Fiction Series: S.F. Masterworks

About the Author

Born in 1942 in Harlem, New York, Samuel R Delany has become one of SF's most influential and discussed authors. Since 1988 he has also been Professor of Comparative Literature at Massachusetts University. He has won the Nebula Award.

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