The Three Body Problem

How Physics and Intrigue Broke My Reading Slump

The Three Body Problem by Cixin Liu

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Set against the backdrop of China’s Cultural Revolution, a secret military project sends signals into space to establish contact with aliens. An alien civilization on the brink of destruction captures the signal and plans to invade Earth. Meanwhile, on Earth, different camps start forming, planning to either welcome the superior beings and help them take over a world seen as corrupt, or to fight against the invasion.

I didn’t just read The Three Body Problem, I got pulled into an intellectual wormhole. Written by Cixin Liu and translated from Chinese to English by Ken Liu, this story offers a different perspective of science, aliens, and intrigue. It’s the kind of novel that dares to be different, and honestly? I’m here for it.

Here’s how it scored on my CAWPILE system.

Characters: 8

The Three Body Problem leans heavily into its plot, but the characters are far from neglected. Their motivations, reactions, and evolution through the story feel carefully thought out and constructed.

Atmosphere: 10

Finally - something fresh! The concept of a VR world layered over complex scientific themes instantly teleported me to the world of Ready Player One which lives in my brain rent free. But the stakes isn’t a hostile business takeover, it’s aliens!

Writing Style: 9

Translation always complicated my evaluation - where does Liu Cixin’s prose end and Ken Liu’s mastery begin? That said, the result is a seamless read that respects the original vision while making it accessible to Western readers.

Plot: 10

I said it once, I’ll say it again: Something new. The layered approach to scientific mystery, political undertones, and an existential threat felt both invigorating and unsettling in the best way. I closed the book eager to read the next book in the series.

Intrigue: 10

Every page came with an unspoken dare: try to stop reading. Spoiler alert - I couldn’t. The momentum never falters, and the puzzles keep unraveling right up to the final reveal.

Logic: 10

A heads up for the faint of science heart: the Physics in The Three Body Problem are heavy. I found myself re-reading passages and Googling terms I thought I understood. But it’s all internally consistent, thoughtfully explained, and oddly satisfying once the pieces click into place.

Enjoyment: 9

This book rescued me from a brutal two week long reading slump. While some of the scientific depth danced outside my comfort zone, it was well worth it.

Final Thoughts

The Three Body Problem is a rare blend of fiction and hard science. It’s not afraid to challenge readers, and it rewards those who stick around for the ride. For anyone craving something that tilts the genre on its axis - this one is a must read. I’m already looking for space on my TBR for book two.

Have you read this masterpiece? Let’s geek out in the comments.