Invisible Planets

Invisible Planets is a collection of contemporary Chinese science fiction stories translated into English by Ken Liu. The anthology features work from multiple Chinese authors including Liu Cixin, Hao Jingfang, and Chen Qiufan. The stories range from hard science fiction to surreal tales that blend technology with Chinese folklore and mythology. Settings span from near-future cities to distant planets, while plots explore space exploration, artificial intelligence, and environmental transformation. Each story includes context about the author and Chinese science fiction's evolution. Liu's translation preserves cultural elements while making the narratives accessible to English-speaking readers. The collection offers perspectives on urbanization, social change, and humanity's relationship with technology through a distinctly Chinese lens. These works reflect both universal themes and specific cultural experiences that shape how different societies envision the future.

Readers appreciate how this anthology introduces Chinese science fiction to English-speaking audiences through diverse story selections. Many note that Ken Liu's translations maintain cultural authenticity while making the works accessible. Readers highlight: - Thoughtful translator notes providing context - Mix of hard sci-fi and softer philosophical stories - Representation of both established and emerging Chinese authors - Inclusion of three essays about Chinese science fiction Common criticisms: - Some stories feel too abstract or experimental - Uneven quality across the collection - A few readers found the cultural references challenging without more explanation Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (180+ ratings) Reader quote: "The stories offer fascinating glimpses into how Chinese authors approach sci-fi themes differently than Western writers" - Goodreads reviewer Several readers specifically praise "Folding Beijing" and "The Year of the Rat" as standout stories in the collection.

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🌟 Ken Liu is not only a translator but also a celebrated science fiction author himself, winning multiple Hugo, Nebula, and World Fantasy Awards for his own original works. 🚀 All stories in this collection were originally written in Chinese and come from mainland China, offering Western readers a window into contemporary Chinese science fiction. 🌏 The book's title "Invisible Planets" comes from one of the included stories by Hao Jingfang, who became the first Chinese woman to win a Hugo Award. 📚 Several of the stories in this collection explore distinctly Chinese concerns about rapid urbanization, population control, and environmental degradation while blending them with universal sci-fi themes. 🎭 The collection includes essays that help readers understand the context and development of Chinese science fiction, making it both an anthology and a cultural guide.