Introduction to 2312
"2312" is a science fiction novel by acclaimed author Kim Stanley Robinson. Set in the year 2312, the narrative explores a future where humanity has expanded beyond Earth, establishing habitats across the solar system. The story delves into the profound changes in human society, technology, and environment, triggered by a pivotal event.
The novel follows Swan Er Hong, a designer of worlds, as she navigates a complex web of events following an unexpected death on Mercury. This journey forces humanity to confront its past, present, and future, exploring themes of survival, adaptation, and the intricate balance of life in a vastly altered solar system.
This manual provides an overview of the book's content, its critical reception, and technical specifications for the Mass Market Paperback edition.
Key Themes and Concepts
"2312" is rich with scientific and sociological concepts, offering a detailed vision of humanity's future among the stars. Key themes include:
- Solar System Colonization: Exploration of diverse habitats on moons, planets, and engineered asteroids, showcasing innovative solutions for human survival in extreme environments.
- Terraforming and Environmental Adaptation: The ongoing efforts to transform celestial bodies and the challenges of maintaining ecological balance across the solar system.
- Societal Evolution: Examination of how human societies, politics, and cultures adapt and diversify in a multi-planetary existence, including discussions on gender and economic systems.
- Technological Advancements: Depiction of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (qubes), synthetic biology, and interstellar travel.
- Humanity's Future: A contemplative look at the long-term trajectory of the human species, its resilience, and its capacity for both creation and destruction.
The narrative weaves these elements into a compelling story, prompting readers to consider the implications of our present actions on a distant future.
Visual Overview
Note: No official product videos are available from the seller for this specific book edition.
Critical Reception and Awards
"2312" has received significant critical acclaim and recognition:
- Awards: Winner of the Nebula Award for Best Science Fiction Novel. Nominated for the Hugo Award and the Arthur C. Clarke Award.
- Bestseller Status: A New York Times Bestseller.
- Overall Rating: The book holds an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars based on over 3,300 ratings.
Reviewers have praised the novel for its imaginative world-building, detailed future vision, and intellectual depth. It is often highlighted for its realistic portrayal of future societies and technological advancements.
About the Author
Kim Stanley Robinson is a highly acclaimed American science fiction writer. He is a New York Times bestseller and a recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including the Hugo, Nebula, and Locus awards. Robinson is best known for his "Mars Trilogy" (Red Mars, Green Mars, Blue Mars), which explores the terraforming and colonization of Mars.
His works are characterized by their strong scientific grounding, detailed world-building, and exploration of ecological and sociological themes. In 2008, he was recognized as a "Hero of the Environment" by Time magazine. He currently resides in Davis, California.
Specifications: Mass Market Paperback Edition
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Title | 2312 |
| Author | Kim Stanley Robinson |
| Format | Mass Market Paperback |
| Publisher | Orbit |
| Publication Date | June 25, 2013 |
| Language | English |
| Print Length | 672 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 9780316098113 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0316098113 |
| Item Weight | 11.2 ounces |
| Dimensions | 4.25 x 1.5 x 7.5 inches |
Accessibility and Other Formats
"2312" is available in various formats to suit different reading preferences:
- Kindle Edition: For digital reading on e-readers and devices.
- Audiobook: An audio version for listening.
- Hardcover: A more durable physical edition.
- Mass Market Paperback: The compact and portable edition detailed in this manual.
These options ensure that readers can access the novel through their preferred medium.
Further Reading and Related Works
Readers interested in "2312" may also enjoy other works by Kim Stanley Robinson, particularly his acclaimed "Mars Trilogy" (Red Mars, Green Mars, Blue Mars), which shares similar themes of planetary colonization and societal development. His other notable works include New York 2140 and The Years of Rice and Salt.
For more information on Kim Stanley Robinson's bibliography and future publications, please refer to his official publisher pages or literary resources.
