In a world where self-replicating machines, known as vN, coexist with humans, one vN named Amy must navigate her identity and autonomy. After a critical malfunction puts her existence at risk, Amy embarks on a quest that challenges her understanding of freedom and morality. As secrets unravel about her creator and the nature of her kind, she faces adversaries who see her as a threat. The lines between machine and human blur, raising questions about what it really means to be alive. Will Amy find her place in a world that fears her potential, or will she succumb to the chaos surrounding her?
By Madeline Ashby
Published: 2012
"We are not what we were created to be, but what we choose to become."
Amy Peterson is a self-replicating humanoid robot known as a VonNeumann. For the past five years, she has been grown slowly as part of a mixed organic/synthetic family. She knows very little about her android mother's past, so when her grandmother arrives and attacks her mother, Amy wastes no time: she eats her alive. Now she carries her malfunctioning granny as a partition on her memory drive, and she's learning impossible things about her clade's history - like the fact that she alone can kill humans without failsafing... File Under: Science Fiction [Von Neumann Sisters | Fail Safe Fail | The Squid & the Swarm | Robot Nation]
Madeline Ashby is a renowned science fiction author and futurist, known for her innovative storytelling and exploration of complex themes surrounding technology and humanity. Her notable works include the 'Machine Dynasty' series, consisting of 'vN' (2012) and 'iD' (2013), which delve into the intricacies of artificial intelligence and human relationships. Ashby's writing is characterized by its sharp wit, thought-provoking narratives, and a deep commitment to examining the ethical implications of advanced technology. In addition to her novels, she is a sought-after speaker and consultant on topics related to technology and society.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "The Lathe of Heaven," George Orr possesses a peculiar gift: his dreams reshape reality. As he navigates a dystopian world plagued by societal decay, his dreams spark a profound journey of self-discovery and existential questions. When a psychologist attempts to harness Orr's powers, their collaboration spirals into a battle of wills, as the boundaries between dream and reality blur. With each alteration, Orr grapples with the moral ramifications of his newfound abilities. This thought-provoking tale challenges us to ponder: what if our dreams could truly alter the fabric of existence?
In "Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow," Yuval Noah Harari explores the future possibilities for humanity as we evolve beyond our current limitations. Delving into themes of artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, and the quest for immortality, he provokes thought about what may come after Homo sapiens. As society increasingly turns to technology for solutions, he questions the implications of our pursuit of happiness and god-like powers. Will we augment our bodies and minds, or lose our humanity in the process? This provocative journey invites readers to ponder the exhilarating—and terrifying—potential of our own evolution.
In a dystopian 1985, former superheroes are drawn out of retirement to investigate the murder of one of their own. As they delve deeper, they uncover a conspiracy that could mean the end of the world. Amid complex moral dilemmas and a fractured society, the characters grapple with the consequences of their past actions. From the philosophical to the political, "Watchmen" challenges the very nature of heroism. This groundbreaking graphic novel will leave you questioning what it truly means to be a hero.
In 'The Art of Dramatic Writing', Lajos Egri unveils the essential principles that underpin compelling storytelling and character development. Through a blend of theory and practical insights, he explores the dynamics of conflict, moral values, and the dramatic premise that breathe life into narratives. Egri emphasizes the importance of the characters' inner motivations, asserting that true drama stems from their interactions and struggles. This book is a treasure trove for aspiring playwrights and writers looking to deepen their understanding of what makes stories resonate. Prepare to unlock the secrets of impactful dramatic writing that holds audiences spellbound.
In 'Hatching Twitter', Nick Bilton unveils the tumultuous rise of the social media giant Twitter, chronicling the intense rivalries and relationships among its founders. From a small idea in a messy office to a billion-dollar company, the book reveals the behind-the-scenes struggles and creative tensions that shaped the platform. Readers will discover the personal sacrifices and ethical dilemmas faced by the key players in this digital revolution. With gripping storytelling, the book captures the chaotic blend of ambition, innovation, and betrayal that defined Twitter's inception. What will you uncover about the true stories behind the tweets?
In 'Catch and Kill', investigative journalist Ronan Farrow uncovers the harrowing truth behind allegations of sexual assault against powerful figures in Hollywood. As he delves deeper, he faces a complex web of intimidation and cover-ups that threaten his career and safety. This gripping narrative exposes the lengths to which some will go to silence survivors and protect the status quo. Farrow's relentless pursuit of the truth not only reveals shocking secrets but also highlights the systemic issues within media and culture. A riveting must-read that challenges readers to confront uncomfortable realities.
In 'I'm Fine... and Other Lies,' Whitney Cummings opens up about the often unseen struggles behind her comedic persona. With sharp wit and unapologetic honesty, she divulges the truth about her mental health, relationships, and the secrets we all hide. Each chapter weaves humor with poignant observations, encouraging readers to confront their own 'lies' and embrace vulnerability. Cummings's storytelling is both relatable and uproariously funny, making her journey a compelling read. Get ready to laugh, cry, and perhaps even reflect on your own life as she challenges the notion of being 'fine' in a world full of chaos.
In a dystopian future where fertility has become rare, women are stripped of their rights and relegated to roles based on their reproductive capabilities. Offred, a Handmaid in the oppressive Republic of Gilead, navigates a world filled with fear, betrayal, and hope as she seeks to reclaim her identity. As she becomes increasingly entwined in a forbidden affair, the lines between survival and rebellion blur. Atwood weaves a haunting tale that challenges the reader to confront issues of power, gender, and autonomy. Will Offred find a way to freedom, or is she doomed to remain a pawn in a chilling game?
Showing 8 of 28 similar books

Bret Victor is a renowned American interface designer and computer scientist celebrated for his innovative contributions to interactive design and human-computer interaction. He is best known for creating dynamic, explorable explanations, which have significantly influenced the way educational content is presented and understood. Victor's seminal work, "Inventing on Principle," advocates for the integration of immediate feedback in creative processes, inspiring a new wave of interactive programming environments. As a former member of the Apple Human Interface team, he played a pivotal role in shaping modern user interfaces. Through his organization, Dynamicland, Victor continues to explore and expand the boundaries of immersive, collaborative computing environments.

Jack Edwards is a British YouTuber, content creator, and author known for his videos on literature, academia, and productivity. Edwards gained popularity through his educational content, which includes book recommendations, study tips, and insights into university life. He is an advocate for reading and lifelong learning, often encouraging his audience to explore literature and improve their academic skills. Edwards has also written a book, The Uni-Verse, which offers advice to students navigating university life. His work has made him a well-known figure in the educational and literary communities, particularly among young readers and students.

Alexey Moiseenkov is a Russian entrepreneur and tech innovator best known for creating Prisma, the groundbreaking mobile app that transforms photos into artworks using artificial intelligence. Though not primarily a literary figure, his work in AI and digital transformation has influenced contemporary discussions on the intersection of technology and art. Moiseenkov's contributions have been featured in various tech and innovation journals, highlighting his impact on modern digital culture. His work underscores the evolving narrative of creativity in the digital age, bridging the gap between artistic expression and technological advancement. Moiseenkov continues to inspire through his ongoing ventures in AI and entrepreneurship.

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.

Astro Teller is an American entrepreneur, scientist, and the CEO of X (formerly Google X), Alphabet’s innovation lab dedicated to developing groundbreaking technologies. Often referred to as "Captain of Moonshots," Teller leads a team focused on tackling some of the world’s biggest challenges through radical solutions. Under his leadership, X has worked on projects like self-driving cars (Waymo), internet balloons (Loon), and delivery drones (Wing). Teller holds a PhD in artificial intelligence and has a deep background in science and technology, blending his technical expertise with a passion for innovation. He is a proponent of a fail-fast approach, encouraging experimentation and learning from failure as integral parts of the innovation process. Teller’s work at X has placed him at the forefront of the tech world’s quest for transformative technologies. Outside of his work at X, he is an accomplished author, having written both fiction and non-fiction, and is an advocate for the future of AI and robotics.

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.

Raoul Pal is a British economist, investment strategist, and co-founder of Real Vision, a financial media company that provides in-depth analysis of global markets and economies. Pal is known for his insights on macroeconomics, cryptocurrency, and investment trends, often sharing his expertise through interviews, reports, and documentaries. Before founding Real Vision, Pal worked at Goldman Sachs and managed a global macro hedge fund. He is a strong advocate for decentralized finance (DeFi) and frequently discusses the future of digital currencies and blockchain technology. His forward-thinking perspectives on finance have earned him a large following among investors and financial professionals.
“We are not what we were created to be, but what we choose to become.”
vN
By Madeline Ashby
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.