A collection of short stories exploring the themes of robots, artificial intelligence, and revolution, where robots serve as stand-ins for societal issues and human experiences. The anthology features a diverse range of stories from various authors, showcasing unique perspectives on the impact of technology on humanity and the ethical dilemmas that arise.

Made to Order: Robots and Revolution is an exceptional anthology of 16 original science fiction stories centered around robots, artificial intelligence, and the profound impacts these technologies may have on human society. Masterfully edited by Jonathan Strahan, this collection showcases the remarkable talents of both acclaimed and rising stars in the genre, delivering a diverse array of thought-provoking, emotionally resonant, and wildly entertaining tales.

One of the anthology's greatest strengths is the sheer variety of perspectives and themes explored. From lighthearted and humorous stories like Vina Jie-Min Prasad's "A Guide for Working Breeds" and Alastair Reynolds' "Polished Performance," to more introspective and philosophical pieces like Sofia Samatar's "Fairy Tales for Robots" and Ian R. MacLeod's haunting "Sin Eater," the collection offers something for every science fiction fan. The stories delve into the complex relationships between humans and their artificial creations, examining issues of identity, autonomy, oppression, and the blurring lines between man and machine.

Standout stories include Ken Liu's "Idols," a brilliant exploration of how AI-generated simulations could revolutionize fields like jury selection; Peter F. Hamilton's thrilling "Sonnie's Union," a sequel to his popular "Sonnie's Edge"; and Annalee Newitz's "The Translator," a tantalizing glimpse into a future where AIs have largely withdrawn from human society. Other notable contributions come from powerhouse authors such as Peter Watts, Sarah Pinsker, Daryl Gregory, and Suzanne Palmer, each bringing their unique voice and vision to the theme.

The anthology is not just a collection of great stories, but a thought-provoking examination of the potential impact of advanced robotics and AI on our world. The stories raise important questions about the rights of sentient machines, the displacement of human workers, and the transformative power of these technologies to reshape society for better or worse. By presenting such a wide range of possibilities, from hopeful to dystopian, Made to Order challenges readers to consider the complex implications of a future increasingly shaped by artificial minds.

Praise must also be given to Strahan's expert curation. The stories flow together seamlessly, each one building upon the themes and ideas of those that came before while still maintaining a distinct identity. The order of the stories feels deliberate and well-considered, guiding the reader on a journey through the many facets of the robot revolution.

While anthologies can often be hit-or-miss, with weaker stories dragging down the overall quality, Made to Order maintains an impressively high standard throughout. Even the few stories that may not resonate with every reader still offer something valuable, whether it's a unique perspective, a compelling character, or a vividly realized world.

In conclusion, Made to Order: Robots and Revolution is an outstanding achievement, a must-read for any science fiction fan interested in the future of robotics and AI. The stories within are not just entertaining, but deeply relevant to the challenges and opportunities we face as a society on the cusp of a technological revolution. With its diverse array of voices, ideas, and storytelling styles, this anthology is a testament to the enduring power of science fiction to illuminate the human condition and to shape our understanding of the future we are creating. Jonathan Strahan and the talented authors he has assembled have delivered a true masterwork of the genre.