I don't get tired of recommending "When we cease to understand the world" (though I read it in its original Spanish). But no one seems to listen to me.
It was my favorite book I read in 2023. I would say.
I really disliked the book. Probably one of the worst books I’ve ever read.
Some times HN shows well-written and researched blog pieces about events or characters in scientific history. This book felt like the author read a bunch of these and put them together in a book. Then the reality-fantasy aspect of it makes no sense to me.
The reality-fantasy aspect turned me off too. Majorly. On the other hand the writing is pretty terrific. The similies are especially evocative.
> like deducing all the rules of Wimbledon from the few balls that flew out of the stadium, without ever having witnessed what takes place on the court
I read it on a recommendation from readers of McCarthy's last works "The Passenger" and "Stella Maris". Loved it! I've picked up Lebatut's latest, 'The MANIAC' and I'm not enjoying it as much (though, I will note that the first chapter is riveting).
I thought "The MANIAC" was electrifying, particularly that final section on Lee Sedol, and now I'm even more excited to pick up "When We Cease to Understand the World."
It was my favorite book I read in 2023. I would say.