A collection of twenty hard science fiction stories by Greg Egan, spanning thirty years, delves into themes of artificial intelligence, consciousness, technology's impact on humanity, and mathematical and philosophical explorations, offering thought-provoking and mind-bending narratives that challenge the boundaries of human existence and identity. With stories ranging from the exploration of brain implants and immortality to the consequences of altering personalities through technology, Egan's work presents a diverse and intellectually stimulating journey through the possibilities and implications of advanced science and technology.

Reader Review Summary

The Best of Greg Egan is an essential collection showcasing the brilliant mind and unparalleled imagination of one of the greatest living science fiction writers. Across twenty masterfully crafted stories and novellas spanning three decades, Egan explores provocative themes at the intersection of cutting-edge science, philosophy, consciousness, identity, and technology.

Egan's visionary hard science fiction shines in stories like "Learning to be Me" where achieving immortality means replacing organic brains with miraculous "jewel" technology, examining the very nature of selfhood. Interconnected tales like "Bit Players", "3-adica" and "Instantiation" immerse readers in worlds where software beings fight exploitation and strive for agency, purpose and survival. Highlights include the mathematically-themed award nominees "Luminous" and "Dark Integers", the heartfelt "Reasons to be Cheerful" about a boy finding happiness after a brain tumor, the unsettling "Axiomatic" where personality implants enable revenge, and Hugo winner "Oceanic" about a crisis of religious faith.

Throughout, Egan grapples with the philosophical and moral implications of a near-future where technology can fundamentally alter human values, memories and identity. His rigorous scientific extrapolations are balanced with poignant character studies and deeply human stories. The ordering of pieces also provides fascinating insight into the evolution of Egan's craft and ideas over time.

While challenging at times, Egan rewards patient readers with startlingly original and emotionally resonant narratives underpinned by vivid worldbuilding and stimulating conceptual frameworks. The collection serves as both a perfect introduction for newcomers and a satisfying assortment for devoted fans. Egan cements his legacy as a titan of idea-driven, philosophically engaged science fiction.

The Best of Greg Egan is a monumental, mind-expanding tome gathering decades of groundbreaking work from a Modern Master of the genre. It's an enlightening journey through the romance of mathematics, the frontiers of technology, and the biggest questions facing humanity - a journey no serious science fiction fan should miss. This collection is a crowning achievement for Egan and an indispensable addition to any SF library.