68 pages • 2 hours read
Liu Cixin, Transl. Ken LiuThe Three-Body Problem
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2006A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin, translated by Ken Liu, unfolds during the Cultural Revolution, where Ye Wenjie witnesses her father’s murder and later works at a secret military base exploring extraterrestrial life. In the present, Wang Miao is drawn into a mysterious group and a concerning video game that reflects the impending arrival of an alien species, the Trisolarans, posing a dire threat to humanity’s future. The novel contains depictions of torture and death, including death by suicide.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin, translated by Ken Liu, receives praise for its imaginative and intricate plot, blending hard science with philosophical questions about humanity. Critics note its complex narrative and dense scientific exposition may challenge some readers. However, its innovative ideas make it a compelling read for science fiction enthusiasts.
Who Should Read The Three-Body Problem?
Readers who enjoy hard science fiction, thought-provoking narratives, and complex scientific concepts would be captivated by Liu Cixin’s The Three-Body Problem, translated by Ken Liu. Fans of Isaac Asimov’s Foundation series and Arthur C. Clarke’s Rendezvous with Rama will find this novel particularly engaging due to its intricate plot and scientific depth.