Exhalation

'There are enough classic Chiang shorts to make the collection something special. "The Truth of Fact, the Truth of Feeling", about a near-future in which fallible human memory is superseded by searchable digital video . . . In "Anxiety Is the Dizziness of Freedom" it is possible, via a kind of quantum iPad, to interact with versions of ourselves who made different choices at crucial life moments, and are living with the consequences in a different timeline . . . "The Merchant and the Alchemist's Gate" is an intricate and delightful Arabian Nights-style yarn about a time gate; and the title story deftly creates an alien world, bounded by solid chromium, in which live touchingly thoughtful robotic creatures . . . Chiang at his best, and worth the price of admission on its own.' Guardian'Reading this book felt like being seated at dinner with a friend, one who will explain the state of the sciences to you without an ounce of condescension, making you a participant in the knowledge.' New York Times'Exhalation is a breath of fresh air . . . If there's an overarching theme, it's that we should take time to appreciate the miracle of existence and cherish the free will we have to pursue our destinies - while we still can.' Financial Times von Chiang, Ted