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The anthology "Robots: The Recent A.I." exemplifies a modern approach to the age-old theme of artificial intelligence in science fiction. With a compelling collection of 18 stories, the book encompasses a rich spectrum of narratives, each exploring the varied relationships and interactions between humans and AIs in a world reimagined beyond our present-day frameworks.
Readers have praised the anthology's ability to blend engaging storytelling with scientific plausibility, making the characters and plots both captivating and thought-provoking. Highlights among the stories include "Kiss Me Twice" by Mary Robinette Kowal, where a police-assistance AI, inspired by the legendary Mae West, becomes involved in a mystery that showcases a unique blend of humor and smart world-building. Similarly, Catherynne M. Valente's "Silently and Very Fast" dives into a baroque exploration of AI's birth intertwined with themes of folklore, setting itself apart with evocative language and depth.
The anthology features a balance of quality across its selections, with 4 stories hailed as great, 9 as good, and 4 categorized as average. The variety of authors contributes to varied storytelling techniques and perspectives, providing readers both nostalgic nods to classic sci-fi tropes and innovative depictions of futures where AI shapes the fabric of human existence.
While some stories drew criticism—such as Cory Doctorow's "I, Robot," which some felt poorly utilized its storied title—the overall reception remains overwhelmingly positive. Readers appreciate the anthology’s focus on the psychological and societal implications of living alongside AIs, rather than just on action-packed narratives or conventional robot stories that often pit humans against machines.
"Robots: The Recent A.I." is not just an anthology for science fiction enthusiasts; it also serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the nature of intelligence—whether biological or artificial—and the evolving relationships we may adopt in an increasingly automated world.
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