The Three-Body Problem” is a science fiction novel by Chinese author Liu Cixin, the first in his “Remembrance of Earth’s Past” trilogy. The story is a blend of hard science fiction, political intrigue, and philosophical exploration, drawing on China’s Cultural Revolution, advanced physics, and the future of humanity.

Plot Overview:

1. Setting the Stage: The novel begins during the Cultural Revolution in China, where astrophysicist Ye Wenjie witnesses the persecution and death of her father, a physicist. Disillusioned with humanity, she is eventually recruited to work at a secretive military base called Red Coast, which is involved in extraterrestrial communication.
2. First Contact: While working at the Red Coast base, Ye Wenjie sends a signal into space and receives a response from an alien civilization living on a planet in the Alpha Centauri system, known as the Trisolarans. The Trisolarans live on a world that orbits three stars, creating an unstable environment where the planet’s climate and position change unpredictably — the “three-body problem” in physics.
3. The Trisolaran Threat: Ye Wenjie, disillusioned with humanity, responds to the Trisolarans, revealing Earth’s location and inviting them to invade. She believes that only an external force can bring about a better future for humanity. Meanwhile, a secret organization, the Earth-Trisolaris Organization (ETO), is formed, composed of those who either fear or worship the Trisolarans and want to prepare Earth for their arrival.
4. Countdown to Invasion: The novel unfolds as scientists on Earth begin to notice strange phenomena, including mysterious deaths and a VR game called “Three Body,” which hints at the existence of the Trisolarans and their world. The protagonist, Wang Miao, a nanotech scientist, becomes embroiled in the mystery as he tries to uncover the truth behind these events and the impending invasion.

Why People Love It:

• Hard Science Fiction: The novel is known for its rich scientific content, incorporating real-world physics and astronomy to create a highly detailed and plausible scenario for first contact with an alien civilization.
• Complex Characters and Storylines: The book weaves together multiple timelines, perspectives, and characters, creating a narrative that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging.
• Cultural Perspective: As a Chinese science fiction novel, “The Three-Body Problem” offers a fresh cultural perspective and brings Chinese history, politics, and philosophy into the global sci-fi canon.

About the Author

Background and Early Life:

• Education and Career: Liu Cixin graduated from North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power with a degree in hydroelectric engineering. For many years, he worked as a computer engineer at a power plant in Shanxi Province, which influenced his practical approach to science fiction, often incorporating his engineering knowledge into his stories.
• Interest in Science Fiction: Liu developed a passion for science fiction at a young age, reading works by Arthur C. Clarke, Isaac Asimov, and Jules Verne, which were introduced to China after the Cultural Revolution. This exposure to Western sci-fi greatly shaped his imagination and inspired him to write his own stories.

Writing Career:

• Breakthrough with “The Three-Body Problem”: Liu began writing science fiction in the 1980s, but he rose to international prominence with “The Three-Body Problem,” published in China in 2008. The novel became a massive success in China, winning the prestigious Galaxy Award (China’s top honor for science fiction) and later achieving worldwide recognition after its English translation by Ken Liu was published in 2014.
• Global Recognition: “The Three-Body Problem” was the first Asian novel to win the Hugo Award for Best Novel in 2015, bringing Liu Cixin into the global spotlight. His trilogy has since been translated into multiple languages and has won several international awards, solidifying his reputation as one of the most influential contemporary science fiction writers.

Key Works:

1. “Remembrance of Earth’s Past” Trilogy:
   • “The Three-Body Problem” (2008): Explores first contact with an alien civilization and humanity’s response to the impending threat.
   • “The Dark Forest” (2008): Continues the story by developing the concept of “cosmic sociology” and exploring the conflict between civilizations in a “dark forest” universe.
   • “Death’s End” (2010): Concludes the trilogy by expanding on the cosmic implications and ethical dilemmas of interstellar contact and warfare.
2. Short Stories and Other Works:
   • Liu has written several acclaimed short stories and novellas, including “The Wandering Earth,” “The Micro-Age,” and “The Village Teacher.” “The Wandering Earth” was adapted into a blockbuster Chinese film in 2019, further popularizing his work.

Writing Style and Themes:

• Hard Science Fiction Focus: Liu is known for his “hard” science fiction, which means he emphasizes scientific accuracy and plausibility. His stories often delve deeply into advanced scientific concepts, like physics, astronomy, and engineering, presenting them in a way that is accessible to a broad audience.
• Philosophical and Ethical Exploration: His works frequently explore complex ethical questions about human nature, civilization, and the universe. He is particularly interested in the potential consequences of first contact with alien civilizations and the broader implications for humanity’s place in the cosmos.
• Cultural Context: Liu’s writing reflects his experience growing up in China, with its unique political and historical context. He often weaves elements of Chinese culture, history, and social issues into his stories, providing a fresh perspective in the global science fiction genre.

Impact and Legacy:

Liu Cixin is widely credited with helping to popularize Chinese science fiction globally, bringing attention to the genre’s unique perspectives and themes. His success has inspired a new generation of Chinese writers to explore speculative fiction and has helped elevate the status of science fiction literature in China, which was once considered a niche genre.

Personal Views and Philosophy:

• Optimistic Yet Realistic: Liu describes himself as cautiously optimistic about the future of humanity. While his works often portray grim scenarios and challenging dilemmas, he believes in the resilience of the human spirit and our capacity for progress and adaptation.
• Science and Imagination: He views science fiction as a way to inspire scientific curiosity and exploration, encouraging readers to think about the future and humanity’s place in the universe. Liu often emphasizes that science fiction can help broaden our understanding of science and its potential impact on our lives.

Author Influences

Liu Cixin (a male author) was influenced by several factors in writing “The Three-Body Problem,” ranging from his personal experiences growing up in China, his professional background in engineering, his love for classic science fiction, and the socio-political environment of his time. Here are the main influences:

Childhood and Cultural Revolution:

• Personal Experience: Liu was born in 1963 and grew up during the Cultural Revolution in China (1966–1976), a period of political turmoil, cultural suppression, and widespread persecution. This era had a profound impact on his worldview, and elements of it are reflected in “The Three-Body Problem.” For example, the novel begins with a dramatic depiction of the Cultural Revolution, where the protagonist, Ye Wenjie, witnesses her father’s brutal death due to his scientific beliefs. This experience shapes her character’s future decisions and embodies the tension between scientific progress and political ideology.
• Themes of Distrust and Survival: The unpredictable and often dangerous environment Liu experienced as a child influenced his interest in the darker sides of human nature, particularly themes of distrust, survival, and the consequences of ideological extremism. These themes are central to the novel, which explores how different factions of humanity might react to an existential threat from an alien civilization.

Passion for Science and Science Fiction:

• Influence of Classic Sci-Fi: Liu has cited classic science fiction writers like Arthur C. Clarke, Isaac Asimov, Jules Verne, and H.G. Wells as major influences on his work. Clarke’s focus on hard science fiction and Asimov’s exploration of human and societal dilemmas in a futuristic context inspired Liu to blend scientific rigor with profound philosophical questions in his own writing.
• Scientific Curiosity: Liu’s background as a computer engineer at a power plant gave him a solid foundation in science and technology, which he used to craft a scientifically plausible and detailed narrative in “The Three-Body Problem.” His interest in physics, mathematics, and engineering influenced the novel’s exploration of advanced scientific concepts, like the “three-body problem” in celestial mechanics, which serves as a central metaphor for chaos and unpredictability in the universe.

Influence of Chinese History and Culture:

• Chinese Perspectives in Sci-Fi: As one of the first Chinese authors to gain international recognition in the genre, Liu wanted to introduce a distinctly Chinese perspective to science fiction. He drew on China’s rich history, philosophical traditions, and cultural heritage to create a story that reflects Chinese social and political realities while addressing universal themes of survival, morality, and the future of humanity.
• Historical Reflection and Critique: “The Three-Body Problem” reflects Liu’s desire to examine human nature and civilization from a broader perspective, including the influence of authoritarian regimes, scientific suppression, and the tension between collectivism and individualism. His portrayal of the Cultural Revolution serves as both a historical reflection and a critique, highlighting the consequences of dogmatic thinking and the suppression of scientific inquiry.

Concerns About the Future and Humanity’s Place in the Universe:

• Exploring First Contact and Cosmic Sociology: Liu is fascinated by the idea of first contact with extraterrestrial civilizations and its implications for humanity. “The Three-Body Problem” explores the idea that the universe might be a “dark forest,” where civilizations must remain hidden to survive, or risk destruction by more advanced and potentially hostile species. This concept reflects Liu’s interest in the unknowns of the cosmos and the potential dangers that lie beyond Earth.
• Philosophical Questions and Ethical Dilemmas: Liu’s work often delves into philosophical and ethical questions, such as how humanity should react to a technologically superior alien civilization, what sacrifices might be necessary to ensure survival, and whether human nature is inherently self-destructive or capable of overcoming its flaws.

A Desire to Push Boundaries in Science Fiction:

• A New Vision for Sci-Fi: Liu Cixin wanted to expand the boundaries of science fiction by combining hard science with grand, cosmic-scale storytelling. He aimed to create a story that was not only scientifically accurate but also intellectually challenging, emotionally resonant, and culturally significant. “The Three-Body Problem” reflects this ambition, weaving together complex scientific concepts, multi-layered characters, and a gripping narrative that pushes readers to think about humanity’s place in the universe.

Overall, Liu Cixin’s influences are a blend of personal history, scientific curiosity, cultural context, and a deep appreciation for the science fiction genre. He used these elements to craft a narrative that challenges readers to confront difficult questions about the future of humanity, the nature of civilization, and the unknowns of the universe.

TV Series Adaptation

There is a Chinese adaptation of “The Three-Body Problem” that was released earlier in 2023, produced by Tencent Pictures. This series aired on the Chinese streaming platform Tencent Video and was later made available on Netflix.

About the Tencent Adaptation:

1. Production and Release:
   • The Chinese TV series adaptation of “The Three-Body Problem” was produced by Tencent Pictures and has received praise for its efforts to stay true to the source material. It was released in China in January 2023 and has been available on Netflix for international audiences.
2. Faithfulness to the Book:
   • Staying True to the Source Material: The Tencent adaptation is considered relatively faithful to the book. It closely follows the plot, key events, and central themes of Liu Cixin’s novel, including the Cultural Revolution’s impact on the protagonist Ye Wenjie, the discovery of the Trisolarans, and the mysterious VR game “Three Body.”
   • Attention to Detail: The show has been commended for its attention to detail and its careful handling of complex scientific concepts and philosophical themes, which are integral to the original story.
3. Reception:
   • The series has been well-received by fans of the book, particularly in China, for its adherence to the novel’s intricate plot and thought-provoking themes. However, some viewers have noted that the pacing can be slow, given the show’s effort to cover many of the novel’s detailed plot points and scientific discussions.

Netflix Series: “3 Body Problem”

1. Overview:
   • The Netflix adaptation of “3 Body Problem” is based on Liu Cixin’s novel and produced by David Benioff, D.B. Weiss, and Alexander Woo. It was released in September 2023 and is available for streaming on Netflix.
2. Faithfulness to the Book:
   • The series strives to stay true to the book’s main plot and themes, such as the contact with the alien civilization, the Trisolarans, and the human factions that react differently to this existential threat.
   • However, like any adaptation, there are creative liberties taken to suit the visual and episodic format of a TV show. Some scenes and character arcs might have been condensed, expanded, or altered to fit the pacing and structure required for television.
3. Reception:
   • Early reviews indicate that the series has been positively received for its impressive visuals, compelling narrative, and its attempt to capture the book’s complex scientific and philosophical themes. There is also appreciation for the global cast, which adds diversity to the storytelling.

Books Similar to “The Three-Body Problem”:

1. “Children of Time” by Adrian Tchaikovsky
   • Why It’s Similar: Both books deal with the evolution of alien species and humanity’s response to an existential threat. They explore grand, cosmic scales of time and the ethical implications of contact between species.
   • Themes: Evolution, artificial intelligence, coexistence, interspecies communication, and the survival of civilizations.
   • Ratings: Highly rated (4.4/5 on Goodreads).
2. “Seveneves” by Neal Stephenson
   • Why It’s Similar: Both explore humanity’s struggle for survival against catastrophic cosmic events. “Seveneves” features a scientifically detailed narrative similar to Liu’s work.
   • Themes: Catastrophic disaster, survival, human perseverance, and rebuilding civilization.
   • Ratings: Moderately rated (4.1/5 on Goodreads).
3. “Manifold Trilogy” by Stephen Baxter
   • Why It’s Similar: Shares a focus on cosmic exploration, the fate of humanity, and multiverse theory, similar to the grand scale and speculative elements of “The Three-Body Problem.”
   • Themes: Multiverse, space exploration, destiny, and the future of humanity.
   • Ratings: Mixed ratings (3.9–4.2/5 on Goodreads).
4. “The Wandering Earth: Classic Science Fiction Collection” by Liu Cixin
   • Why It’s Similar: Written by the same author, this collection contains stories with themes like planetary engineering, survival, and speculative future technology.
   • Themes: Planetary survival, space exploration, speculative technology, and human resilience.
   • Ratings: Highly rated (4.2/5 on Goodreads).
5. “Anathem” by Neal Stephenson
   • Why It’s Similar: Focuses on deep philosophical questions and alternate realities, much like the existential themes in “The Three-Body Problem.”
   • Themes: Alternate realities, philosophy, science vs. faith, and intellectual exploration.
   • Ratings: Highly rated (4.2/5 on Goodreads).
6. “Cryptonomicon” by Neal Stephenson
   • Why It’s Similar: Shares a complex narrative with technological and mathematical elements, akin to the hard science fiction aspects of “The Three-Body Problem.”
   • Themes: Cryptography, technology, history, and cyber warfare.
   • Ratings: Highly rated (4.2/5 on Goodreads).
7. “Exhalation” by Ted Chiang
   • Why It’s Similar: A collection of stories that delve into speculative technology, existential risks, and the nature of intelligence, much like Liu’s exploration of humanity’s future.
   • Themes: Artificial intelligence, free will, time travel, and ethical dilemmas.
   • Ratings: Highly rated (4.5/5 on Goodreads).
8. “The Left Hand of Darkness” by Ursula K. Le Guin
   • Why It’s Similar: Both books explore the clash of cultures, ethical dilemmas, and the idea of an outsider trying to understand an alien world.
   • Themes: Gender, culture, politics, and human nature.
   • Ratings: Highly rated (4.2/5 on Goodreads).
9. “The Space Between Worlds” by Micaiah Johnson
   • Why It’s Similar: Focuses on multiverse theory and alternate realities, which parallels some of the speculative elements of “The Three-Body Problem.”
   • Themes: Multiverse, identity, privilege, and survival.
   • Ratings: Highly rated (4.0/5 on Goodreads).
10. “Sea of Tranquility” by Emily St. John Mandel
    • Why It’s Similar: Deals with existential themes, time travel, and the future of humanity, like the grand speculative questions in “The Three-Body Problem.”
    • Themes: Time travel, human existence, reality, and interconnectedness.
    • Ratings: Highly rated (4.2/5 on Goodreads).
11. “The Stars, Like Dust” by Jack Campbell
    • Why It’s Similar: Focuses on space exploration and political intrigue in a galactic setting, echoing some elements of cosmic struggle in Liu’s book.
    • Themes: War, diplomacy, space colonization, and political strategy.
    • Ratings: Moderately rated (3.8/5 on Goodreads).
12. “Dune” by Frank Herbert
    • Why It’s Similar: Both books explore political and ecological themes, humanity’s future, and conflict on a grand scale.
    • Themes: Politics, ecology, religion, and human evolution.
    • Ratings: Highly rated (4.2/5 on Goodreads).
13. “Song of Silver, Flame Like Night” by Amélie Wen Zhao
    • Why It’s Similar: Focuses on epic world-building and intricate political dynamics, similar to Liu’s detailed setting.
    • Themes: Power, resistance, myth, and destiny.
    • Ratings: Highly rated (4.1/5 on Goodreads).
14. “Snow Crash” by Neal Stephenson
    • Why It’s Similar: Explores themes of technology, information control, and a dystopian future, which resonate with the technological speculations in Liu’s novel.
    • Themes: Cyberpunk, virtual reality, corporate control, and dystopia.
    • Ratings: Highly rated (4.0/5 on Goodreads).
15. “Noor” by Nnedi Okorafor
    • Why It’s Similar: Examines humanity’s relationship with technology and ethical dilemmas, much like the scientific and philosophical questions in “The Three-Body Problem.”
    • Themes: Biotechnology, identity, environmentalism, and cultural heritage.
    • Ratings: Moderately rated (3.7/5 on Goodreads).
16. “Project Hail Mary” by Andy Weir
    • Why It’s Similar: Both books are hard science fiction involving scientific problem-solving, first contact, and the survival of humanity.
    • Themes: Space exploration, survival, ingenuity, and alien life.
    • Ratings: Highly rated (4.5/5 on Goodreads).
17. “How to Live Safely in a Science Fictional Universe” by Charles Yu
    • Why It’s Similar: Explores alternate realities, time travel, and existential questions in a humorous and introspective way.
    • Themes: Time travel, reality, memory, and self-discovery.
    • Ratings: Moderately rated (3.9/5 on Goodreads).
18. “War Girls” by Tochi Onyebuchi
    • Why It’s Similar: Both books explore conflict and survival in a futuristic, technologically advanced setting.
    • Themes: War, technology, survival, and resistance.
    • Ratings: Moderately rated (4.0/5 on Goodreads).
19. “Neuromancer” by William Gibson
    • Why It’s Similar: Both books explore futuristic technology, artificial intelligence, and the boundaries of human and machine.
    • Themes: Cyberpunk, AI, virtual reality, and post-humanism.
    • Ratings: Highly rated (4.0/5 on Goodreads).
20. “Convergence Problems” by Wole Talabi
    • Why It’s Similar: Explores scientific and speculative themes with a mix of African cultural contexts.
    • Themes: Multiverse, artificial intelligence, culture, and speculative futures.
    • Ratings: Moderately rated (4.1/5 on Goodreads).

These books share commonalities with “The Three-Body Problem” through their exploration of complex scientific concepts, cosmic scale conflicts, and the human condition under extraordinary circumstances. They delve into themes like survival, existential threats, technology, and the unknown, making them great recommendations for fans of Liu Cixin’s work.