Armada

I love Ernest Cline. I really do.I loved this book, almost as much as [b:Ready Player One 9969571 Ready Player One Ernest Cline https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1406383612s/9969571.jpg 14863741], but not quite as much, though I wouldn't be able to explain exactly why! I felt sometimes that the book made quite big leaps in the development of the story, but as soon as this thought entered my head I was carried off and away from the thought quickly. I felt that Zack's character was really well written, and “honest” in his reactions and feelings on most occasions.References. Oh the references... this has got to be what I love about Cline's writing. Star Wars, Ender's Game, Star Trek.... Film, games and songs. Genius. Further thoughts:I was definitely a bit reticent about picking up this after I'd read the blurb, as it felt in someways so similar to Ready Player One, and I loved that book so much i was worried that Armada just wouldn't live up to it. But I'm so glad I did, it's different enough in enough ways that although the similarities in style (and to some extent form) are there, it's still totally enjoyable. I think that the references (of which i probably understood/heard of 80-85% of them) just add a whole extra layer of immersion to the story. When you understand what kind of environment/world/psyche the character lives in it gives you a deeper appreciation and involvement in the story.I added the “Raid the Arcade” playlist to my Spotify, again I know a lot of the songs already. As I was listening in the shower this morning, I was just transported right back into the book. Having a soundtrack, that wasn't just written for the book (/film/game), added yet another level of immersion to the experience. I've been a gamer in my time (having a baby has put that somewhat on hold) and I can just imagine sat there playing a game, having the soundtrack on and being totally in the zone.A book that can immerse me with real life references, music, as well as awesome imagery is certainly a winner in my mind. Looking forward to seeing how the film develops.Also Xavier Ulysses Lightman. What an awesome name!!