Ringworld (1970) (edit title/settings)

• Rated 0 stars

“Entertaining read.”

• Rated 3 stars

“I never read this "classic" sci fi novel, so when I saw it at the Library, I thought, what the heck. This is a novel of big ideas and interestingly flawed characters. I had trouble at times with Niven's physical descriptions--the complexity was difficult to visulize and at times seemed to drag on. But by the end, I was engaged and wanted to know more about Ringworld and it's creators.”

• Rated 3 stars

“I expected more from Niven in this one - especially since it is one of his crowning achievements.”

• Rated 3 stars

“The appliance of science behind the book is very good if you're scientific bent though the portrayal of characters seem very one-dimensional and dialogue between is very stilted and doesn't flow naturally in my opinion.

In some ways its very dated but in others its clearly advance and stick to its roots of being a true science fiction novel. By reading this book I've come to conclusion that my interpretation of a science fiction novel is really space opera, which RingWorld is isn't.

That said the description of RingWorld is fantastic and it's obvious that Ringworld is just an entry into the Ringworld universe itself.

”

• Rated 5 stars

“This book is an amazing example of well written science fiction. It's kind of a nerdy read, but if you're into that you will really enjoy this book.”

• Rated 4 stars

“Just finished it. Was fascinated all the way through.

First of all, it was simply a fun read. I loved the characters. I loved that fact that there were really only four of them because, frankly, I wouldn't have been able to keep up with more! There were parts that went to fast such as the various crises they faced when they first started to seek a way off Ringworld. Have to admit that I didn't like the "luck" stuff but, since the whole blasted novel ended up resting on that, what can I say?

I thought the writing, especially considering the subject matter, was first-rate. The pacing was never dull, that is certain.

My favorite quote: Tell them the universe is too complicated a toy for a sensibly cautious being to play with. Another is Finding your limits is a part of growing up.

My favorite character was Speaker - boy, did he develop!

I had to reread several sections because some of the language threw me. Until it was over, I really didn't understand why, occasionally, Louis would refer to the others as puppets - even Nessus.

The next one in the series should be just as fascinating but I have about 50 books on my TBR before I will get to it.

It was very difficult for me to envision some of the descriptions of Ringworld. I'm going to be trying to draw pictures of it in my mind for months to come, I'm certain.”

• Rated 0 stars

“great book”

• Rated 3 stars

“Like most hard sci-fi, Larry Niven's Ringworld is not about the characters, but the setting and its technology. In that respect, Ringworld succeeds. Niven has a knack for explaining futuristic technologies in a way that brings them alive to the reader. I only wish that we had learned more of the ringworld itself.

The story's plot is simple: the group crash on the Ringworld and need to escape. They run around a bit and explore things before finding a way to get out. Ringworld's human characters are boring, and its alien characters are absurd, cartoonish, and uninteresting. Given their dire situation, the characters should be anxious and their relationship complex, but they barely seem to care that their lives are in danger. The characters are so weak, in fact, that I finished the novel a few days ago and I can hardly remember their names.

There are a few moments of tension when we learn of the Puppeteers' history of manipulating other species' evolution for their own benefit, but the situation feels disingenuous, as if their anger is just an inside joke that we know will soon pass. Furthermore, after Teela's disappearance, I was shocked at how quickly everyone wrote her off. But I guess that is excusable because I never once felt attached to any of them either.

Ringworld is a decent read, but I do not understand the hype, nor do I understand why it has won so many awards. It is mediocre in all respects.”

• Rated 5 stars

“This book helped me understand the potential and scope of Science fiction. It also made me think and wonder about luck, myself, group dynamics and luck! ”

• Rated 4 stars

“impressive.”