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A review by lasairfiona
Achilles' Choice by Steven Barnes, Larry Niven
3.0
The idea that a few can win or die in the future isn't a new idea and it wasn't new even when Niven was writing this. I am of the opinion that Niven is just an idea man. His writing just isn't that good. However, this quick little story was fun to read even if the writing and story had a few holes. I read bits and pieces before bed since it was so uncomplicated and clean in both story and writing.
The future Olympics isn't based on body strength alone, mental strength and ablity are also measured. The only was to truly compete is to be boosted, a process that turns the body up to high and cannot be sustained unless the person wins and is hooked up to the network. But perhaps there is trouble even within the winner's circle. The heroine must figure out what is going on while the winner's circle tries to criple her research (one of my favorite parts - a dedicated AI that grows with you starting from when you are a kid. It is an extention of yourself and your best friend. I want one). Oh, and she has to win so she doesn't die.
Simplistic but a good, very quick read. I associate it with high school and good times so perhaps my rating is a bit high but the story might be worth reading while sitting around in the library for an hour or two.
The future Olympics isn't based on body strength alone, mental strength and ablity are also measured. The only was to truly compete is to be boosted, a process that turns the body up to high and cannot be sustained unless the person wins and is hooked up to the network. But perhaps there is trouble even within the winner's circle. The heroine must figure out what is going on while the winner's circle tries to criple her research (one of my favorite parts - a dedicated AI that grows with you starting from when you are a kid. It is an extention of yourself and your best friend. I want one). Oh, and she has to win so she doesn't die.
Simplistic but a good, very quick read. I associate it with high school and good times so perhaps my rating is a bit high but the story might be worth reading while sitting around in the library for an hour or two.