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Cover of The Three-Body Problem
Science Fiction· China

The Three-Body Problem

by Liu Cixin
Aggregate Editorial Score62/100
★Hugo Award
Published 2015English
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About This Book

Published in 2015, The Three-Body Problem established Liu Cixin as one of the defining voices in science fiction. During China's Cultural Revolution, a scientist sends a signal into space that will invite an alien civilisation to invade Earth. Liu's Hugo Award-winning novel, translated from Mandarin by Ken Liu, is a landmark of Chinese science fiction and a thrilling meditation on physics, history, and the fate of civilisation. Themes of physics, China, Cultural Revolution run through the work. The book has received recognition from Hugo Award 2015.

Book Details

AuthorLiu Cixin
Published2015
Country of Origin🇨🇳 China
LanguageEnglish
Category🚀 Science Fiction
ISBN9780765382030
Editorial Score62/100
About the Category

🚀 Science Fiction

Speculative fiction exploring technology, space, the future, and society.

Explore all Science Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇨🇳 China

This book is part of China's rich literary tradition.

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Editorial Assessment

The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin sits within the tradition of science fiction that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 2015 in China, it engages with physics, China, Cultural Revolution, alien contact in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. Among its recognitions: Hugo Award 2015. With an editorial score of 62/100 drawn from 1 independent sources, the book occupies a well-documented position in the critical literature. Its recognition spans international prizes, "best of" lists, and academic surveys. Readers coming to The Three-Body Problem for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of physics, China, Cultural Revolution, alien contact is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. Within China's literary landscape, Liu Cixin occupies a significant position. The Three-Body Problem is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

Hugo Award
winner · genre
201562
✍️
About the Author
Liu Cixin
China
View Author →

Liu Cixin is a celebrated author from China known for influential works of science fiction.

Designed to Feel
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Three-Body Problem about?

During China's Cultural Revolution, a scientist sends a signal into space that will invite an alien civilisation to invade Earth. Liu's Hugo Award-winning novel, translated from Mandarin by Ken Liu, is a landmark of Chinese science fiction and a thrilling meditation on physics, history, and the fate of civilisation.

Who wrote The Three-Body Problem?

The Three-Body Problem was written by Liu Cixin, from China. First published in 2015.

What awards has The Three-Body Problem won?

The Three-Body Problem has received the following awards and honours: Hugo Award 2015.

Is The Three-Body Problem worth reading?

The Three-Body Problem is a well-regarded book with solid critical recognition, with an aggregate editorial score of 62/100 on 50 Best Books, based on mentions across 1 editorial source. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in physics, China, Cultural Revolution.

Where can I buy The Three-Body Problem?

You can buy The Three-Body Problem on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is The Three-Body Problem?

The Three-Body Problem is classified as Science Fiction. Speculative fiction exploring technology, space, the future, and society.

What country is The Three-Body Problem from?

The Three-Body Problem originates from China's literary tradition. Explore more books from China on our country page.

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