Snow Crash

Rating:
Summary: What so many people seem to think The Da Vinci Code is
Review: So I went from reading _The Da Vinci Code_ on the (regrettable) advice of a friend to reading _Snow Crash_ based on a throwaway line in a newspaper editorial. Despite all the obvious differences in the books, I was struck by one huge underlying similarity: the use of ancient legend to try to make sense of the modern world generally, and religion specifically. The difference is that where TDVC comes off as a screed against religion duct-taped on top of a bunch of chase scenes, _Snow Crash_ actually works as a novel all by itself, with a semi-coherent philosophy giving it enough impact to be memorable.

Of course, it's not a perfect book. I almost gave it 4 stars rather than 5, since there are a few plot holes here and there and a bit too much exposition, but when looking at the book as a whole, those are actually minor issues. Despite its futuristic feel, Stephenson understands the great rule of old-school performers--throw enough good stuff at the audience quickly enough, and it won't matter if some of it doesn't work perfectly.

And, finally, a hint for reading the book, since there's so much detail in it: Don't get hung up on all the Sumerian stuff--you can always page back to it if you need details.

Rating:
Summary: nice start, pity about the missing chapters
Review: First, on the rating, I think the book deserves a 3, but its ratings are inflated, and it's close to a 2 for me.

There are some things here that might be considered minor spoilers, but they are necessary to include to discuss the (severe) flaws in the book.

What is good:
The idea of a neurolinguistic virus (not just the old idea of a virulent meme, but something that can destroy or hijack a mind), connected to a physical virus and religion is unique, and handled pretty well, given it would sound like the conspiracy theories of a paranoid schitzophrenic normally.
The author has clearly done a /lot/ of research into a lot of different areas, and manages to weave them into a surprisingly coherant whole.

What might not be so good:
This is

Rating:
Summary: Not just another chase scene
Review: I read this book a number of years ago, and I've been a Stephenson fan ever since. It's got the best opening chapter in the history of the English language novel, and the rest of the book isn't bad either.