LearningClubs Recommends: Books

Issac Asimov's Sci-Fi classic: I Robot (recommended by Chris)

Suitable for readers aged 11+

"This book is nothing like the movie. Here are stories of robots gone mad, of mind-read robots, and robots with a sense of humour. A great story, driven by characters, even though some of those characters happen to be robots! (And yes they do use maths to escape some sticky situations)." Chris

From the back cover: Earth is ruled by master-machines but the Three Laws of Robotics have been designed to ensure humans maintain the upper hand:

1) A robot may not injure a human being or allow a human being to come to harm

2) A robot must obey orders given to it by human beings except where such orders would conflict with the First Law.

3) A robot must protect its own existence as long as such protection does not conflict with the First or Second Law.

But what happens when a rogue robot's idea of what is good for society contravenes the Three Laws?

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‘Klara and the Sun’ by Kazuo Ishiguro (recommended by Lottie)

Suitable for readers of all ages

"Hey, Siri! Hey, Alexa! Meet Klara. This is a fantastic and timely book. Ishiguro prompts readers to think about our relationship with technology and artificial intelligence in a world which feels not too distant from our own. Yet, whilst the book makes you reflect on these matters, these are secondary themes of friendship, genuine personal connection, and love in this arresting story. A book that will both move you and make you think, all told in beautifully vivid prose, perfect for readers of all ages" Lottie

Goodreads review: 'The Sun always has ways to reach us.'

From her place in the store, Klara, an Artificial Friend with outstanding observational qualities, watches carefully the behaviour of those who come in to browse, and of those who pass in the street outside. She remains hopeful a customer will soon choose her, but when the possibility emerges that her circumstances may change for ever, Klara is warned not to invest too much in the promises of humans.