Surface Detail
Surface Detail
Book Brief
Beta627
Novel • Fiction
The Culture • Far Future
2010
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Surface Detail by Iain M. Banks follows several interconnected characters navigating virtual and physical realms in a future universe. Themes include warfare, justice, and digital afterlives. This science fiction novel is part of the Culture series, blending complex narratives and ethical questions within an advanced society.
Reviews & Readership
33,037 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Reviews of Iain M. Banks's Surface Detail highlight its imaginative and complex narrative, intricate plotting, and detailed world-building, which exemplify Banks's skill in science fiction. Positive feedback praises the deep philosophical questions it raises. However, some criticism focuses on the multitude of characters and subplots that may overwhelm new readers.
Who Should Read Surface Detail?
Fans of complex, imaginative sci-fi narratives with rich world-building and deep moral dilemmas will enjoy Iain M. Banks's Surface Detail. Ideal for readers of Douglas Adams's The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy and Isaac Asimov's Foundation series who seek thought-provoking escapism within a richly constructed universe.
33,037 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Surface Detail was shortlisted for the 2011 British Science Fiction Association (BSFA) Award for Best Novel.
Iain M. Banks wrote a special limited edition epilogue for Surface Detail that was published exclusively for a Tenth Anniversary edition of the book by Subterranean Press.
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Surface Detail explores themes like the nature of hell and digital afterlives, showcasing Banks's talent for blending complex philosophical ideas with science fiction narratives.
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627
Novel • Fiction
The Culture • Far Future
2010
Adult
18+ years
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