"A real book is not one that we read, but one that reads us."

-W. H. Auden

I have no idea what that quote is supposed to mean. Like all the best quotes it's very poetic and deep sounding, but upon further examination has about as much meaning as the Easter Bunny. I just imagine a futuristic book that changes the plot to accommodate one's particular world view. You know, sort of like the modern media does with the news.

Today's topic isn't about the slippery descent into pointless drivel that is U.S. news though. Today I want to talk about books. I know, shocking right? One of the things that continually surprises me about librarian blogs is how few of them talk about books. Since I call myself the Chic Geek, I'm sure you (whoever you are, pretty sure right now it's just Law Penny ::waves::) are shocked that my favorite books are science fiction. Fantasy is also well liked.

But I am very particular about my sci-fi. I will read five and dime novels with lurid space creatures if that's all thats about, but really I'd prefer not. My love of science fiction springs from the questions that it asks much like I discussed in my previous Star Trek post. So in honor of Auden's quote, here are a few authors who 'read' that desire in me and that I treasure for it:

Isaac Asmiov- I will probably mention him every other post because ohmygod he is made of awesome. He is the only author who has written a book in every section of the Dewey Decimal system. So. Much. Love. He is also the most prolific 'question' writer. Nightfall, Positronic Man and I, Robot just to name a few.

John Varley- He addresses my favorite subject to poke at: gender. In the Eight Worlds, the setting of most of his novels and short stories, a person can change their gender back and forth with a simple, cheap surgery. The effect it has on individuals and society is well thought out and well done.

Margret Atwood- I admire this woman for so many reasons. Her writing style is jaw dropping and jealousy inducing to degrees that I am embarrassed to admit. The posed futures she spins (and currents as her regular fiction is also amazing) are enthralling.

Theodore Sturgeon- Mostly forgotten the shadows of his peers (Heinlein, Asmiov and Clark, he actually lived with Heinlien for a while), there has been a resurgence of interest in him lately. It is well worth it. He writes about the same kinds of questions that Heinlein does, but better and with more care.

Neil Gaiman- Everyone and there goth mother loves Gaiman. Usually this would make me shy away on principal, but much like Atwood he is too magnetic to ignore. American Gods is probably one of my favorite fantasies ever and it begs another favorite question of mine: What if the gods were one of us? Fabulous, amazing bastard.

I'm sure there are a ton more, but I figured I would start with a sampling. Maybe next I'll do some authors I don't like.......

Catch you on the flipside,
Chic Geek Librarian