Cryptonomicon
by Neal Stephenson
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Book Summary Information
Author: Neal StephensonBrand: Avon
Edition: Mass Market Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 2002-11-05
ISBN: 0060512806
Number of pages: 1168
Publisher: Avon
Book Reviews of Cryptonomicon
Book Review: "Like Snow Crash, with more ADHD"
Summary: 5 Stars
I really liked Neal Stephenson's Snow Crash. Then recently someone recommended this book by saying "It's like Snow Crash, with more ADHD."
I was sold, and Cryptonomicon exceeded my expectations. There are numerous digressions that are really funny, partly because you find yourself entertained the whole way. Like a stand-up comic, Neal Stephenson will suddenly veer off into a side-anecdote and then slams you back in a way that's fun all by itself.
The biggest complaint to this book is that the ending is oddly-standard compared to the rest of the book. Some authors seem to start with a great problem and a great solution, which creates a great ending. Intead, similar to Orson Scott-Card's books, it feels like Neal Stephenson starts with a great premise, fully enjoys developing the story, then thinks "ok, I think that's enough. Hmmm... What's a great way to end the book from here?"
*shrug* I still give it 5 stars. I'll always prefer a great story with contrived ending over a contrived story with a great ending.
Here's an example and litmus test for whether or not you should buy this book... and it's a slight spoiler, but only of a digression, so I think you'll forgive me...
At one point, the book digresses for a few pages into a character's ability to solve scientific problems as a function of his sex drive, complete with graphs as if right out of a math textbook! Now, if you would be annoyed by such a digression or the geek-factor of it then you should stay away.
However, if you are intrigued, amused, or especially both, then you are probably a geek like me, and you should buy it. Now.
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