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Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
In the year 2044, Earth is decimated by continuous energy crises and colossal unemployment levels. The worldview is grim and the only outlet offered is the open-source (free to the public), virtual reality world of OASIS. It is in this world that we find our hero, Wade Watts (18 and broke). He lives with his drug addicted aunt and her rotating list of boyfriends inside of a tiny one-bedroom trailer with only the floor in the laundry room to sleep on.
Suddenly and unexpectedly, the brilliant programmer behind the creation of OASIS, James Halliday, dies. He lived as a recluse for the last portion of his life and has no one to leave his $240 billion fortune with. He leaves a video on his website explaining that he has hidden 3 “Easter eggs” within OASIS—three keys, each opens a gate where a challenge awaits and must be completed. Only someone worthy, who knows enough about Halliday and his obsession with the 1980’s, will win his money. Within OASIS, groups are formed, alliances are made—but after five years, still nothing is found. Until one day, when an over-weight, unhappy teenager makes the discovery of a life time. The copper key has been found—by Wade Watts. Now, he must race against fellow gunters (egg hunters), a few who are out for his life, in order to finish the puzzle.
This book was fun and fast-paced– never a dull moment. Wade jumps from one puzzle to the next quickly and confidently. He was a believable character. Not beautiful, not overly witty, and he has no idea how to talk to girls. But, he is extremely likable and smart—and he knows everything there is to know about the 1980’s. For those who have some knowledge of the 80’s, this book is an entertaining romp through a decade of awesome movies and horrible style. If you aren’t familiar with the 80’s, the planets and worlds that are described throughout are alone worth the read. The author, who was also a screenwriter for the movie Fanboys, has a great imagination and even at 384 pages, it is an enjoyable, quick read.
Review by Julie, CLP – Beechview
