A genre-defining collection of cyberpunk short stories from around the world, exploring themes of rebellion, technology, and corporate power in near-future settings. With a diverse selection of stories curated around the themes of "self," "culture," and "post-cyberpunk," this anthology offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of the cyberpunk genre.

Reader Review Summary

"The Big Book of Cyberpunk Vol. 1" is an extraordinary anthology that cements its place as an essential tome for fans and newcomers to the cyberpunk genre alike. Expertly curated by Jared Shurin, this collection is a treasure trove of over a hundred short stories from authors spanning more than twenty-five countries, showcasing the vast breadth and depth of the cyberpunk literary movement.

What makes this anthology truly remarkable is Shurin's deft curation, which not only pays homage to the classic cyberpunk tropes but also boldly redefines and subverts them. The stories seamlessly blend gritty, near-future noir with pulse-pounding action, taking readers on a thrilling ride through back alleys and the darkest corners of the online world. From urban rebels undermining monolithic corporate overlords to daring heists conducted through complex technologies, the tales in this volume capture the essence of the genre while pushing its boundaries.

One of the standout features of "The Big Book of Cyberpunk Vol. 1" is the inclusion of previously unpublished stories in English, offering readers a rare opportunity to explore fresh perspectives and diverse voices from around the globe. This diversity is further enriched by Shurin's insightful clustering of the stories around the themes of "self," "culture," and "post-cyberpunk," allowing readers to delve into the genre's exploration of identity, societal implications, and its evolution.

The reader reviews highlight the anthology's exceptional quality, with one reviewer praising Shurin's new definition of cyberpunk, which demonstrates his profound understanding of the genre and its zeitgeist. Another reviewer commends the "completeness" of the selection, stating that it offers something for every cyberpunk enthusiast, from the classic tales like G.A. Effinger's "The World As We Know It" to thought-provoking explorations of culture and identity, such as Zedeck Siew's "The White Mask" and Corey White's "Exopunks Not Dead."

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of "The Big Book of Cyberpunk Vol. 1" is Shurin's own insightful commentary and essays, which elevate the anthology to a level beyond a mere collection of stories. His profound understanding of the genre and its relevance to our increasingly cyberpunk world serves as a guiding light, illuminating the anthology's significance and positioning Shurin as a skilled sherpa through the neon-slicked streets of this literary landscape.