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Chargement... The Wonder (1911)par J. D. Beresford
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Appartient à la série éditorialeThe Century Library (10) Listes notables
A fascinating forerunner of modern science fiction: The mind-bending story of a prodigy in Edwardian England Born to a famous cricket player, Victor Stott is a giant-headed, awkward boy who never cries or says a word. At first, he is branded an idiot, but as he grows up it becomes apparent that Victor possesses a superior intelligence. He can master any language, memorize entire libraries--perhaps even control people with his mind. As word of his otherworldly gifts spreads, so too do fears of what he might be capable of. First published in 1911 and considered to be the first novel about a superman, The Wonder is a masterpiece of speculative fiction and a compelling portrait of what it means to be extraordinary. This ebook has been professionally proofread to ensure accuracy and readability on all devices. Aucune description trouvée dans une bibliothèque |
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Google Books — Chargement... GenresClassification décimale de Melvil (CDD)823.912Literature English English fiction Modern Period 1901-1999 1901-1945Classification de la Bibliothèque du CongrèsÉvaluationMoyenne:
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It was recommended as an early work that would qualify as science fiction (it was published first in 1911), and if the umbrella's stretched far enough, then I suppose it would be considered so. After all, Asimov's "psychohistory" falls in the field, and there's about the same theoretical basis for either. It's safe to actually skim over the bits on Cricket (I loathe sports, and discussion of them), although at least a cursory reading helps with the later events.
One of the best things about this slim book for me was the use of language. It was pleasant to encounter a rich vocabulary, something that seems lost in our modern times. The only other non-technical book I've read in the last decade that used language to its fullest extent was The Elegance of the Hedgehog. It may be that the richness of language puts some off, but it added a great deal for me.
There are strong philosophical points being made in this book, having little to do with the curiosity of an advanced intellect, and the interactions with others. The "Wonder" is used as much as a vehicle to convey the author's theories, and (deliberately) is the least developed character in this tale.
I recommend it, with reservations. It's as much an interesting pastiche of the understanding of intellect and genetics of that day as it is a discussion of the philosophy of the author. ( )