Hyperion

I read Hyperion nearly two months ago and I am still thinking about it. Truly one of the best Sci-fi novels I've ever read, and probably will ever read.

Hyperion follows a pilgrimage to the planet of Hyperion by six people. Each person has their ties to Hyperion and own reasons to be going there, a planet ruled by the mysterious Shrike. Plus, there's a spy on board. Intrigue abounds! The pilgrims decide to take turns telling their stories about why they are going to Hyperion. What results is a Canterbury Tales-style book that will leave you feeling every emotion, make you think, horrify you, and leave you in suspense...for with each story, the Shrike becomes a bit more of a enigmatic entity, and our crew is heading straight for it...

The priest's tale is incredible. It had me glued to my seat, absolutely invested in this insane, horrifying tale.

The soldier's tale is about bullets, boobies, and butts. This tale is the only reason Hyperion doesn't get a perfect score from me; some interesting things happen, especially the ending, but it's primarily interested in shooting things and saying the word “buttocks” as much as possible.

The poet's tale has the most distinct voice, and the most comedy. It is a reflection on the value of art and the reasons for art existing, and artist's need to follow their muses. This one was really good.

The scholar's tale...is pinnacle fiction. This is it. Simply one of the best things put to paper and each page brought the emotions to life even further. The last few pages were read through a haze of misty eyes. The whole book is worth reading for this.

The detective's tale was good, but a bit long, and falls a bit flat, I think partially due to following up Scholar's Tale. Some neat concepts, though.

The consul's tale was really good, bringing everything together in a way(as the rest of the story is told primarily through the consul's POV) and answering some questions. The intergenerational story told here was very gripping.

And then, cliffhanger city. Don't read this expecting resolution. I need to get to Fall of Hyperion!

9.5/10