59 pages • 1 hour read
Liu Cixin, Transl. Joel MartinsenThe Dark Forest
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In The Dark Forest, Earth is facing an impending invasion from the Trisolaran civilization in 400 years, using sophons to monitor and hinder technological advancements. The UN initiates the Wallfacer Program, where four individuals devise secret strategies to defend humanity. Luo Ji uncovers the "dark forest" theory and utilizes it to achieve a tenuous truce with the Trisolarans through the threat of mutual destruction. The story includes material related to suicide and violent death.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Dark Forest by Liu Cixin, translated by Joel Martinsen, is lauded for its imaginative scope and deep philosophical questions. Readers praise its intricate plot and thought-provoking themes. However, some find its pacing uneven and character development lacking. Overall, it is a compelling sequel that expands on the complexity of the universe introduced in the series.
Who Should Read The Dark Forest?
A reader who enjoys hard science fiction with deep philosophical undertones and complex interstellar politics would appreciate The Dark Forest by Liu Cixin, translated by Joel Martinsen. Fans of Foundation by Isaac Asimov or Dune by Frank Herbert will find its rich, intricate plotting and expansive scope particularly engaging.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsBook Details
Science-Fiction / Dystopian Fiction
Fantasy
Chinese Literature
Natural World: Space & The Universe
Values/Ideas: Win & Lose
Society: War