New York 2140

Overview

• Author: Kim Stanley Robinson

Three-Sentence Summary

• "New York 2140" is a science fiction novel that imagines a future where climate change has caused sea levels to rise, turning New York City into a "SuperVenice."
• Despite the dramatic changes, life goes on with residents adapting to their new environment and dealing with the socio-economic implications of the crisis.
• The book weaves together the stories of various characters living in this transformed city, exploring themes of resilience, adaptation, and human ingenuity in the face of adversity.

Extended Summary

"New York 2140" by Kim Stanley Robinson is a science fiction novel set in a future where climate change has caused sea levels to rise drastically. The city of New York has been transformed into a "SuperVenice," with skyscrapers rising out of the water and people navigating the city in boats and skybridges. Despite these dramatic changes, life continues as usual with residents going about their daily lives and adapting to their new environment.

The narrative follows several characters including a market trader who speculates on property values in this new world, two coders looking for missing treasure hidden somewhere in the city's drowned streets, an internet star who uses his platform to raise awareness about climate change, and a building manager trying to keep his building above water level.

The book explores how society reacts and adapts to such drastic changes. It examines socio-economic implications of climate change such as inequality, displacement, and resource scarcity. It also delves into themes of resilience and human ingenuity in facing adversity.

The narrative structure is episodic yet interconnected, allowing readers to see different aspects of this altered world through each character's perspective. Through these individual stories, Robinson paints a vivid picture of a possible future that is both unsettling yet hopeful.

Key Points

1. "New York 2140" imagines a future where climate change has drastically altered the world, turning New York City into a "SuperVenice."
2. The book explores themes of resilience, adaptation, and human ingenuity in the face of adversity.
3. The narrative structure is episodic yet interconnected, providing various perspectives on this transformed world.

Who Should Read

"New York 2140" is an ideal read for fans of science fiction and speculative fiction, particularly those interested in narratives centered around climate change. It would also appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven stories set in uniquely imagined futures.

About the Author

Kim Stanley Robinson is an American writer of science fiction, best known for his Mars trilogy. His work often explores ecological and sociological themes.

Further Reading

• Visit Kim Stanley Robinson's website at www.kimstanleyrobinson.info
• Other works by Kim Stanley Robinson include Red Mars, Green Mars, Blue Mars, and "The Ministry for the Future".
• For more on climate change-related science fiction, check out Paolo Bacigalupi's "The Water Will Come: Rising Seas, Sinking Cities, and the Remaking of the Civilized World".