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The Little Universe
What if you could create a universe: a miniature self-enclosed universe? Imagine having probing cameras that could focus to any star or planet looking for life. And once you found life, what if you could accelerate time and watch it evolve? What might you find? These are not the questions Jon Gruber ponders as he pedals to his next carpentry job. Over thirty and unmarried, he doesn't even own a car. But a new assignment challenges him to rethink his place in the world. Is he a loser? Or is he about to become a partner in an experiment of phenomenal discovery? Webster Adams, astronomer, inventor, and Jon's latest client, performs such an experiment. To Webster's amazement, he finds planets and cultures beyond his wildest dreams. His little universe turns into a discovery machine--an overnight goldmine. He and his crew observe societies so far past them on levels of technology and spirituality, that the world will be forever changed. Webster's lovely daughter, Whitney, also overwhelms Jon. She opens his eyes to the deeper meanings within the experiment by finding the most advanced beings within the project--the spirit guides from Theta 7. The Little Universe is a mind expanding concept. For Webster Adams, one question immediately comes to light. "If I can create a universe," he wonders, "then who created ours?" Can it be proven that some form of God exists? Or is life random and free-flowing without purpose? Along with Jon, you, the reader, will be presented a new perspective on life and your role in the great mystery of the universe.
298 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2005
About the author
Jason Matthews
36 books57 followers
Jason Matthews is an author, self-publishing teacher and blogger working with writers around the world. His novels and how-to guides include:
The Little Universe
Jim's Life
Self Publish to a World of Readers: with Amazon, Apple, Google and Other Major Retailers
How to Make, Market and Sell Ebooks All for Free
Get On Google Front Page
How to Make Your Own Free Website: And Your Free Blog Too
Better You, Better Me
Jason teaches self-publishing courses at Udemy, Lynda and other venues.
Outside publishing, he’s a skier, soccer player, beach-lounger and enjoys a good game of chess.
He can be contacted through his websites:
http://ebooksuccess4free.wordpress.com/
http://www.thelittleuniverse.com/
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
November 24, 2013
Have you ever wondered about The Big Bang? What it was, how it happened? Wonder no more. Instead, follow the characters in this huge-in-scope novel as they set about re-creating it. Do they succeed? Oh yes. And how. With the help of an infinitely talented and intelligent computer named Jim they build their own little universe within the confines of a purpose-built building and then proceed to tweak, play and interact with planetary inhabitants to suit their own purposes.
The investors see only the mind-blowing profits that can be made from exploiting technology from more-advanced planets than their own, and they conflict with venture partners who want to observe and learn from one particular planet whose inhabitants are in tune with the entire universe.
This novel is an exploration of creation, the existence of a creator, spirituality, reincarnation and much much more. Matthews exhibits an expertly deft touch as he explores what are obviously to him important subjects. By novel’s end I found myself in a contemplative mood as I pondered the ideas he raised.
A lot of the story involves a voyeuristic slant as the protagonists watch what’s happening on the planets that interest them and my interest level dipped as this felt like surface-skimming. My interest lay in the meditation interactions with the Thetans and how the project changes the lives of the protagonists.
The story has a definite beginning and ending and about three quarters of the way in there’s a jolt that completely alters the reader’s perception of everything. That was clever and had me smiling.
This is the first in a two-book series, the second being JIM’S LIFE which I unknowingly read last year. While it’s not imperative to read them in order I wish I had because, even though I loved JIM’S LIFE and gave it five stars, it would have been advantageous to have the background of THE LITTLE UNIVERSE to draw upon.
This is a well-written, well-told story with characters I felt I knew by the time I finished.
The investors see only the mind-blowing profits that can be made from exploiting technology from more-advanced planets than their own, and they conflict with venture partners who want to observe and learn from one particular planet whose inhabitants are in tune with the entire universe.
This novel is an exploration of creation, the existence of a creator, spirituality, reincarnation and much much more. Matthews exhibits an expertly deft touch as he explores what are obviously to him important subjects. By novel’s end I found myself in a contemplative mood as I pondered the ideas he raised.
A lot of the story involves a voyeuristic slant as the protagonists watch what’s happening on the planets that interest them and my interest level dipped as this felt like surface-skimming. My interest lay in the meditation interactions with the Thetans and how the project changes the lives of the protagonists.
The story has a definite beginning and ending and about three quarters of the way in there’s a jolt that completely alters the reader’s perception of everything. That was clever and had me smiling.
This is the first in a two-book series, the second being JIM’S LIFE which I unknowingly read last year. While it’s not imperative to read them in order I wish I had because, even though I loved JIM’S LIFE and gave it five stars, it would have been advantageous to have the background of THE LITTLE UNIVERSE to draw upon.
This is a well-written, well-told story with characters I felt I knew by the time I finished.
October 12, 2011
“The Little Universe” by Jason Matthews is worth more than the $2.99 price and lost sleep you’re sure to experience once you begin this un-put-downable novel. Even after finishing the book, I’m still losing sleep because I can’t stop thinking about it.
There are quite a few excellent stories by indie authors, but all too often they are riddled with typos, formatting errors and grammatical gaffs. This book is NOT one of them. Not only is the plot based on a brilliant and original concept, it is well crafted, tightly paced and beautifully written.
The science is detailed enough to feel real but delivered organically without a single info-dump. I didn’t understand all the physics, but since the main character didn’t either, I never felt stupid. “The Little Universe” is as good as or better than any traditionally published book I’ve read in the past year and better than most.
The characters are multi-faceted, believable and instantly engaging. The story is told from the protagonist, Jon’s, point of view. He is highly intelligent and creative, but uneducated and in need of a spiritual awakening. I was always on his side, but I occasionally wanted to smack him and shake some sense into him. I even yelled at him at one point, but I understood why he made the choices he did.
The antagonist had his redeeming qualities, making it difficult to hate him. His decisions were clearly motivated by greed but I think he honestly believed he was working for the “greater good.”
The supporting cast was well developed without crowding the storyline. Each person was an individual worthy of their own novel. I am thrilled the sequel, “Jim’s Life,” features one of my favorite personalities from this novel.
I highly recommend this entertaining and enlightening book to all science fiction fans as well as anyone questioning the meaning of life or exploring their own spirituality.
There are quite a few excellent stories by indie authors, but all too often they are riddled with typos, formatting errors and grammatical gaffs. This book is NOT one of them. Not only is the plot based on a brilliant and original concept, it is well crafted, tightly paced and beautifully written.
The science is detailed enough to feel real but delivered organically without a single info-dump. I didn’t understand all the physics, but since the main character didn’t either, I never felt stupid. “The Little Universe” is as good as or better than any traditionally published book I’ve read in the past year and better than most.
The characters are multi-faceted, believable and instantly engaging. The story is told from the protagonist, Jon’s, point of view. He is highly intelligent and creative, but uneducated and in need of a spiritual awakening. I was always on his side, but I occasionally wanted to smack him and shake some sense into him. I even yelled at him at one point, but I understood why he made the choices he did.
The antagonist had his redeeming qualities, making it difficult to hate him. His decisions were clearly motivated by greed but I think he honestly believed he was working for the “greater good.”
The supporting cast was well developed without crowding the storyline. Each person was an individual worthy of their own novel. I am thrilled the sequel, “Jim’s Life,” features one of my favorite personalities from this novel.
I highly recommend this entertaining and enlightening book to all science fiction fans as well as anyone questioning the meaning of life or exploring their own spirituality.
February 14, 2026
(3.7/5 stars)
I absolutely loved the ideologies behind this book but some of the conversations and character depth came up a bit flat and generic. I also felt like some of the sentences read weirdly and I would have to re-read some sentences to understand what he was trying to say.
Jason Matthews was actually my soccer coach and the dad of one of my best friends in grade school. I have been waiting to read this book for the last 20 years or so… I tried when I younger but I wasn’t a huge reader then and I honestly wouldn’t have appreciated the spiritual aspect behind these concepts then, so I’m glad I read it when I did.
A lot of the ideas in this book line up with my beliefs on consciousness, the origins of the universe(s), and what’s possible through meditation.
The book concludes with “Questions and Topics for Discussion” which I will answer below:
1. I was genuinely surprised to find out Earth was inside of the little universe, instead of Earth being the planet the little universe was created on. There were times when I thought to myself that there’s no way this would happen in our society, like just casually creating the PFD and flying them around without any regulation or FAA contact, but other than that I was pretty surprised.
2. I believe in a soul family where a group of souls take turns being significant people to each other throughout different lifetimes. So yes, I believe it’s fine if “soul mates” have different relationships with other souls throughout different lifetimes. I’m not so sure that only two souls are each other’s soul mates throughout each lifetime.
3. I think that Rose proved in a way that “God” must exist. I use quotes because I do not define God as a male Christian figure. “God”, in my belief, is collective consciousness, the great oneness, the energy that exists behind all matter connecting everything. Creation comes in many forms, whether that be a woman creating life, Adam’s creating a mini universe, or consciousness creating matter to experience itself through. I believe it would be hard to prove to someone that God exists. God is a feeling. A knowing that all beings are connected and are derived from the same source. It is a personal journey that cannot be forced on to anyone.
4. To me Whitney was always the obvious choice, but that’s because I resonate with Whitney a lot, especially her view of the Thetans. Jessica’s character honestly kind of annoyed me, but then again Jon had some annoying characteristics too so they kinda made sense together. Whitney’s description of their relationship hit the nail on the head. Jon wasn’t ready for her in this lifetime, and that’s ok.
5. Honestly a lot of the topics in the book are believable. The hardest might be being able to create a universe in a lab setting (possible, but very hard). But pretty much everything else I believe to be true. One can definitely channel other beings through meditation. The Akashic Records definitely exist. The conditions of the Theta planet would be hard to get to through evolution, but I believe if you had an entire planet of spiritually enlightened beings you could heal by touch, ask a planet to shift orbit (what a great example of the “ask and you shall receive”). Another thing a little hard to believe is the Thetans living so long. Even if you could heal by touch, biology in the physical plane, only lasts so long. I guess there are some species that technically don’t show signs of aging so it could be plausible, but more unlikely than some of the other ideas. This book was also ahead of its time when it comes to AI. Today, I believe most people would consider AI having a consciousness of its own.
6. Earth could definitely end up like one of the planets that kills itself off by war or over production with the current track we are on. A future like that of Alpha or Delta I think is the most plausible for Earth, however I do believe a future like Theta could be possible if we evolve to embrace spiritual awakening. And I hope Earth never ends up like Omega.
7. I believe the author did a good job of covering a variety of different humanoid possibilities. It would have been cool to explore planets where non-humanoid creatures ruled the planet.
8. I have had my fair share of synchronicities and things that I believe can only be explained by tapping into collective consciousness, or “God”. I don’t know if I would say that alone proves “God”. Like I stated before, it is a personal journey each soul experiences through different lifetimes. Only one could prove to themselves that the great oneness and source consciousness exists.
9. I think the author did a good job of melding science and religion together. Except I would say more spirituality than religion. There wasn’t much of any major religion talked about in the book. I wished the book would’ve touched on how quantum mechanics and spirituality come together. I am a big believer that we are able to use quantum mechanics by shifting the probability waveform to create reality around us, or manifestation. I believe this is one of the greatest ways spiritually and science come together.
10. Well because I read this book in 2026 I know that the sequel is Jim’s Life.
I absolutely loved the ideologies behind this book but some of the conversations and character depth came up a bit flat and generic. I also felt like some of the sentences read weirdly and I would have to re-read some sentences to understand what he was trying to say.
Jason Matthews was actually my soccer coach and the dad of one of my best friends in grade school. I have been waiting to read this book for the last 20 years or so… I tried when I younger but I wasn’t a huge reader then and I honestly wouldn’t have appreciated the spiritual aspect behind these concepts then, so I’m glad I read it when I did.
A lot of the ideas in this book line up with my beliefs on consciousness, the origins of the universe(s), and what’s possible through meditation.
The book concludes with “Questions and Topics for Discussion” which I will answer below:
1. I was genuinely surprised to find out Earth was inside of the little universe, instead of Earth being the planet the little universe was created on. There were times when I thought to myself that there’s no way this would happen in our society, like just casually creating the PFD and flying them around without any regulation or FAA contact, but other than that I was pretty surprised.
2. I believe in a soul family where a group of souls take turns being significant people to each other throughout different lifetimes. So yes, I believe it’s fine if “soul mates” have different relationships with other souls throughout different lifetimes. I’m not so sure that only two souls are each other’s soul mates throughout each lifetime.
3. I think that Rose proved in a way that “God” must exist. I use quotes because I do not define God as a male Christian figure. “God”, in my belief, is collective consciousness, the great oneness, the energy that exists behind all matter connecting everything. Creation comes in many forms, whether that be a woman creating life, Adam’s creating a mini universe, or consciousness creating matter to experience itself through. I believe it would be hard to prove to someone that God exists. God is a feeling. A knowing that all beings are connected and are derived from the same source. It is a personal journey that cannot be forced on to anyone.
4. To me Whitney was always the obvious choice, but that’s because I resonate with Whitney a lot, especially her view of the Thetans. Jessica’s character honestly kind of annoyed me, but then again Jon had some annoying characteristics too so they kinda made sense together. Whitney’s description of their relationship hit the nail on the head. Jon wasn’t ready for her in this lifetime, and that’s ok.
5. Honestly a lot of the topics in the book are believable. The hardest might be being able to create a universe in a lab setting (possible, but very hard). But pretty much everything else I believe to be true. One can definitely channel other beings through meditation. The Akashic Records definitely exist. The conditions of the Theta planet would be hard to get to through evolution, but I believe if you had an entire planet of spiritually enlightened beings you could heal by touch, ask a planet to shift orbit (what a great example of the “ask and you shall receive”). Another thing a little hard to believe is the Thetans living so long. Even if you could heal by touch, biology in the physical plane, only lasts so long. I guess there are some species that technically don’t show signs of aging so it could be plausible, but more unlikely than some of the other ideas. This book was also ahead of its time when it comes to AI. Today, I believe most people would consider AI having a consciousness of its own.
6. Earth could definitely end up like one of the planets that kills itself off by war or over production with the current track we are on. A future like that of Alpha or Delta I think is the most plausible for Earth, however I do believe a future like Theta could be possible if we evolve to embrace spiritual awakening. And I hope Earth never ends up like Omega.
7. I believe the author did a good job of covering a variety of different humanoid possibilities. It would have been cool to explore planets where non-humanoid creatures ruled the planet.
8. I have had my fair share of synchronicities and things that I believe can only be explained by tapping into collective consciousness, or “God”. I don’t know if I would say that alone proves “God”. Like I stated before, it is a personal journey each soul experiences through different lifetimes. Only one could prove to themselves that the great oneness and source consciousness exists.
9. I think the author did a good job of melding science and religion together. Except I would say more spirituality than religion. There wasn’t much of any major religion talked about in the book. I wished the book would’ve touched on how quantum mechanics and spirituality come together. I am a big believer that we are able to use quantum mechanics by shifting the probability waveform to create reality around us, or manifestation. I believe this is one of the greatest ways spiritually and science come together.
10. Well because I read this book in 2026 I know that the sequel is Jim’s Life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2014
For those who have ever wondered how the universe started, what it was like, or when life really began, this is the perfect book!
Read full review in the 2012 October issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2012 October issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read
August 26, 2011This is my first novel, would like to see the movie version.
September 29, 2011
This copy was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Kindle Edition, published June 16th, 2011
Create Space
Thank you for the review copy!
What defines a loser? Jon Gruber wonders if it’s him. He’s an unmarried carpenter without a car. Do I even need to mention he’s over 30? Maybe meeting Webster Adams is a blessing, for the astronomer gives Jon a new outlook on life. He’s a brilliant inventor trying to create a universe in miniature form. Against all odds the experiment works and a journey of wonder and discovery begins. Who created our universe? Does God exist? Just like the little universe and all the questions that arise, Webster’s daughter Whitney intrigues, yet confuses Jon from the get go. He finds himself not sure of anything except the need to see this through.
Ever had a hard time writing a review? I’m raising my hand. Just saying! The Little Universe isn’t something I would’ve picked up on my own. In fact, I probably would’ve steered clear of it for no apparent reason (other than not being able to put it into a category). However, the author offered me a review copy. I had a slot open and thought it’d be a great idea to try something a little – make that a lot – different. Something I’ve never read before. This particular phrase is used often, but I mean it. I have never read a book like this. Let’s find out if that turned out to be a good thing, shall we?! A quote that came to mind: “Success isn’t permanent and failure isn’t fatal.” (Mike Ditka)
There’s absolutely nothing I can criticize when it comes to the writing. Matthews knows his craft. Dare I say better than most? It’s true. The writing was superb. I loved the subtle changes that occurred whenever the situation warranted it. Thus depending on the circumstances the writing took on a slightly different tone. For example Webster’s journal entries or Jon in his work environment versus Jon after hours. Taking the plot’s complexity into consideration it definitely acted as a safety network. A story that had me pondering various issues; a story that raised so many questions - it simply couldn’t have worked had the writing been sloppy.
The character I connected with the most was Jim. Now, this might sound strange, for Jim’s a computer. Sorry, Jim! I know you don’t like being called a computer. In my opinion he was the one constant throughout the book. Jim was aware that his free will was only free within his confines. One could argue it shouldn’t be called a free will after all, but I won’t get into this now. My point is that he stayed true to himself. He used every opportunity to learn and every loophole that allowed him to break through the confines of his habitat. Of course, this wasn’t always possible. He wished for dreams to come true just as a human being would. Funny enough, I was annoyed by pretty much all of them at one point except by Jim. Don’t get me wrong, the others had their allure as well. I focused on the outcome of their experiment. Not as a whole, instead I was especially interested in what it would mean for each person involved.
No doubt about it, the plot was character driven. Then again, the recreation of the Big Bang can only be labeled point of reference. The character development was hugely dependent on the experiment. The little universe affected not only Jon, but also Webster, his daughter Whitney and their two colleagues in ways I found both fascinating and dangerous. Jon and Webster couldn’t have been more different. That’s probably why Webster had no problem letting Jon in on his secret. A very interesting dynamic. I loved it! Similar to the intelligent life they discovered. While Whitney realized the importance of other aspects of these people’s everyday lives, Webster and the colleagues almost exclusively limited themselves to their technological progress. Two different views made for a beneficial tension.
Science fiction with a splash of philosophy. Shaken not stirred!
I’m not religious. I don’t believe in God. However, I’m more than open to the possibility that there’s something out there I could believe in. For the time being I’m the sole master of my universe. Okay, maybe not the sole master. Society’s moral code and all. I obviously didn’t raise myself either. Hey mom and dad! I don’t know if the author intended to send a specific message – an answer to the most pressing question carrying the plot. Does God exist? If he should wish for my answer to be yes after reading the book I’m sorry to disappoint. To me, the beauty of the story was the lack of a convincing answer. Fear not! There was an aspect of the story I agree with a hundred percent. Money makes the world (the little universe that is) go round. Behind all this - the philosophical elements, the religious undertone, the imagination running wild - stood one big whopper of a condition: The economic interests. No funds, no story to tell. Kudos to the author for realizing that!
What didn’t work for me?
More emphasis should’ve been put on the fact that progress of any kind has a healthy pace that was discarded by the success of Webster’s experiment.
The ending, too, rubbed me the wrong way. I found the state and place of mind Webster ended up in absolutely unacceptable. It sent the wrong message, for it was not something to be happy about. Sometimes a wish simply shouldn’t be fulfilled. Just because something is possible doesn’t mean one should do it. Also, I would’ve bought into a connection between Whitney and Jon if it hadn’t been for the random involvement with another female character. I know what the author wanted to achieve with the conflict (Jon’s confusion). It didn’t work. This resulted in the main plot line being dragged along, rather than staying the main focus. For about a hundred pages or so I was waiting for something essential to happen. Unfortunately the drought lasted too long for comfort. I wanted to skip the pages. It felt like Matthews wandered from the path for the same reason Webster did what he did. Simply because he could, not because it was the right thing to do. A mind-boggling read that lost its center for a time. Where there’s a storm, there must be an eye of the storm. Despite its flaws, you should give this book a shot. I was pleasantly surprised for the most part. 3 stars to The Little Universe by Jason Matthews!
Beware of Spoilers!
A few of my favorite quotes for those of you who are interested:
° “It was my first conversation with a computer, and I felt a little awkward about what to say.”
° “If I can create a universe…then what does it say about who created ours?”
° “The more he studied the universe, the more complex it remained. He realized he was just one person on a little planet drifting in a cosmic ocean without a guide.”
° “Religion is a mythical history used by primitive people to explain the world and heavens…”
° “I needed a reality check from the lab…”
° “You are the creator and the creation. You are the director and the actor and the play.”
Kindle Edition, published June 16th, 2011
Create Space
Thank you for the review copy!
What defines a loser? Jon Gruber wonders if it’s him. He’s an unmarried carpenter without a car. Do I even need to mention he’s over 30? Maybe meeting Webster Adams is a blessing, for the astronomer gives Jon a new outlook on life. He’s a brilliant inventor trying to create a universe in miniature form. Against all odds the experiment works and a journey of wonder and discovery begins. Who created our universe? Does God exist? Just like the little universe and all the questions that arise, Webster’s daughter Whitney intrigues, yet confuses Jon from the get go. He finds himself not sure of anything except the need to see this through.
Ever had a hard time writing a review? I’m raising my hand. Just saying! The Little Universe isn’t something I would’ve picked up on my own. In fact, I probably would’ve steered clear of it for no apparent reason (other than not being able to put it into a category). However, the author offered me a review copy. I had a slot open and thought it’d be a great idea to try something a little – make that a lot – different. Something I’ve never read before. This particular phrase is used often, but I mean it. I have never read a book like this. Let’s find out if that turned out to be a good thing, shall we?! A quote that came to mind: “Success isn’t permanent and failure isn’t fatal.” (Mike Ditka)
There’s absolutely nothing I can criticize when it comes to the writing. Matthews knows his craft. Dare I say better than most? It’s true. The writing was superb. I loved the subtle changes that occurred whenever the situation warranted it. Thus depending on the circumstances the writing took on a slightly different tone. For example Webster’s journal entries or Jon in his work environment versus Jon after hours. Taking the plot’s complexity into consideration it definitely acted as a safety network. A story that had me pondering various issues; a story that raised so many questions - it simply couldn’t have worked had the writing been sloppy.
The character I connected with the most was Jim. Now, this might sound strange, for Jim’s a computer. Sorry, Jim! I know you don’t like being called a computer. In my opinion he was the one constant throughout the book. Jim was aware that his free will was only free within his confines. One could argue it shouldn’t be called a free will after all, but I won’t get into this now. My point is that he stayed true to himself. He used every opportunity to learn and every loophole that allowed him to break through the confines of his habitat. Of course, this wasn’t always possible. He wished for dreams to come true just as a human being would. Funny enough, I was annoyed by pretty much all of them at one point except by Jim. Don’t get me wrong, the others had their allure as well. I focused on the outcome of their experiment. Not as a whole, instead I was especially interested in what it would mean for each person involved.
No doubt about it, the plot was character driven. Then again, the recreation of the Big Bang can only be labeled point of reference. The character development was hugely dependent on the experiment. The little universe affected not only Jon, but also Webster, his daughter Whitney and their two colleagues in ways I found both fascinating and dangerous. Jon and Webster couldn’t have been more different. That’s probably why Webster had no problem letting Jon in on his secret. A very interesting dynamic. I loved it! Similar to the intelligent life they discovered. While Whitney realized the importance of other aspects of these people’s everyday lives, Webster and the colleagues almost exclusively limited themselves to their technological progress. Two different views made for a beneficial tension.
Science fiction with a splash of philosophy. Shaken not stirred!
I’m not religious. I don’t believe in God. However, I’m more than open to the possibility that there’s something out there I could believe in. For the time being I’m the sole master of my universe. Okay, maybe not the sole master. Society’s moral code and all. I obviously didn’t raise myself either. Hey mom and dad! I don’t know if the author intended to send a specific message – an answer to the most pressing question carrying the plot. Does God exist? If he should wish for my answer to be yes after reading the book I’m sorry to disappoint. To me, the beauty of the story was the lack of a convincing answer. Fear not! There was an aspect of the story I agree with a hundred percent. Money makes the world (the little universe that is) go round. Behind all this - the philosophical elements, the religious undertone, the imagination running wild - stood one big whopper of a condition: The economic interests. No funds, no story to tell. Kudos to the author for realizing that!
What didn’t work for me?
More emphasis should’ve been put on the fact that progress of any kind has a healthy pace that was discarded by the success of Webster’s experiment.
The ending, too, rubbed me the wrong way. I found the state and place of mind Webster ended up in absolutely unacceptable. It sent the wrong message, for it was not something to be happy about. Sometimes a wish simply shouldn’t be fulfilled. Just because something is possible doesn’t mean one should do it. Also, I would’ve bought into a connection between Whitney and Jon if it hadn’t been for the random involvement with another female character. I know what the author wanted to achieve with the conflict (Jon’s confusion). It didn’t work. This resulted in the main plot line being dragged along, rather than staying the main focus. For about a hundred pages or so I was waiting for something essential to happen. Unfortunately the drought lasted too long for comfort. I wanted to skip the pages. It felt like Matthews wandered from the path for the same reason Webster did what he did. Simply because he could, not because it was the right thing to do. A mind-boggling read that lost its center for a time. Where there’s a storm, there must be an eye of the storm. Despite its flaws, you should give this book a shot. I was pleasantly surprised for the most part. 3 stars to The Little Universe by Jason Matthews!
Beware of Spoilers!
A few of my favorite quotes for those of you who are interested:
° “It was my first conversation with a computer, and I felt a little awkward about what to say.”
° “If I can create a universe…then what does it say about who created ours?”
° “The more he studied the universe, the more complex it remained. He realized he was just one person on a little planet drifting in a cosmic ocean without a guide.”
° “Religion is a mythical history used by primitive people to explain the world and heavens…”
° “I needed a reality check from the lab…”
° “You are the creator and the creation. You are the director and the actor and the play.”
May 30, 2024
A great disappointment
The subject is of great interest and the story started out with a lot of energy. Rather soon, however, it became a slow, one step at a time discovery of new worlds (ok – that can be expected), but what got me was the discoveries were not revolutionary (apart from the Thetans, which I’ll get to).
For example we discover that a certain planet/civilization has developed a personal flying device and another planet has developed novel architecture for their buildings and housing. So, the investor behind the creation of the Little Universe sais “aha” and begins to apply these discoveries to our world
- in other words, we already have the technologies required, but we need to “discover” them on another planet to put them into action??
In regards to the Thetans, indeed an interesting species which seems to be connected to all things in the universe. While that can be a stretch, it is an interesting idea, yet once a true connection was established (!) the only questions/points raised were immediate in nature and the overlying question on spirituality was never truly addressed – we are just left hanging on an open-ended subject.
But what truly disappointed me is that when the team found a planet which was incredibly similar to ours, the last 40-50% of the story became (for the lack of a better term) a soap opera whereby all the dynamics were centered on the team’s inter-relationships and the personal angles related to the discovery of a “new Earth”.
Fially, there was a quote in the book that said: “Would society be mature enough to handle the responsibilities that come with so much knowledge?”
Well, this was never answered
The subject is of great interest and the story started out with a lot of energy. Rather soon, however, it became a slow, one step at a time discovery of new worlds (ok – that can be expected), but what got me was the discoveries were not revolutionary (apart from the Thetans, which I’ll get to).
For example we discover that a certain planet/civilization has developed a personal flying device and another planet has developed novel architecture for their buildings and housing. So, the investor behind the creation of the Little Universe sais “aha” and begins to apply these discoveries to our world
- in other words, we already have the technologies required, but we need to “discover” them on another planet to put them into action??
In regards to the Thetans, indeed an interesting species which seems to be connected to all things in the universe. While that can be a stretch, it is an interesting idea, yet once a true connection was established (!) the only questions/points raised were immediate in nature and the overlying question on spirituality was never truly addressed – we are just left hanging on an open-ended subject.
But what truly disappointed me is that when the team found a planet which was incredibly similar to ours, the last 40-50% of the story became (for the lack of a better term) a soap opera whereby all the dynamics were centered on the team’s inter-relationships and the personal angles related to the discovery of a “new Earth”.
Fially, there was a quote in the book that said: “Would society be mature enough to handle the responsibilities that come with so much knowledge?”
Well, this was never answered
February 12, 2019
Unique extremely clever original story
Most unusual clever and unpredictable story that leaves you thinking differently. So clever a look at totally new concepts of life and evolution. I wish the stonunding writer had spent more time on the other extra terrestrial activities but that would have called for even greater imagination and creativity than I've got anyway. But s great read.
Most unusual clever and unpredictable story that leaves you thinking differently. So clever a look at totally new concepts of life and evolution. I wish the stonunding writer had spent more time on the other extra terrestrial activities but that would have called for even greater imagination and creativity than I've got anyway. But s great read.
March 20, 2022
A Surprise
Didn't think I would enjoy reading about various solar systems, but was pleasantly surprised when I had a hard time putting the book down when I needed to.
It proved very interesting both emotionally and intellectually. Somewhat predictable.
Looking forward to the sequel.
Didn't think I would enjoy reading about various solar systems, but was pleasantly surprised when I had a hard time putting the book down when I needed to.
It proved very interesting both emotionally and intellectually. Somewhat predictable.
Looking forward to the sequel.
June 22, 2021
So much potential, but not the greatest development. Where there was good plot and character development, it felt glossed over, then it felt like it just ended. Also FYI, not the same Jason Matthews as the Red Sparrow series.
October 3, 2018
This book had some good twists, but it got repetitive at times. Overall, I enjoyed it, even if I started reading it under the assumption it was written by the Red Sparrow guy.
March 24, 2023
The best book i have ever read !!!! My mind was blown when I figured out that the were not on earth and that earth is artificial!! Amazing read ! 10/10
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2019
I loved the concept of this book and the mix of science and religion questioning each other, books like this intrigue me. After the twist in the middle however, I felt the pace became a little slower and the plot a little less interesting. I felt after all that initial excitement and intrigue the ending of the book was a little anti-climatic and a bit 'meh' for want of a better word. It was an easy enough read and would recommend it to anyone who likes a little bit of philosophical thinking.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2011
This delightful, subtly humorous novel asks the question, "What might happen if you could create your own universe in miniature, and explore it to whatever level of detail you desired?" From the very first page, I was pulled into the story, and I couldn't put the book down. Most of the book is conversational rather than narrative, which helps to propel the story forward; there are no dull moments.
There are many social aspects to the story that seem implausible; how an experiment of this magnitude could be started by a single scientist, or how such an amazing array of new technologies necessary for the experiment could be brought together for the first time by that scientist, or why a carpenter with no scientific background would be picked up as an assistant. But the fact that the experiment was simultaneously so big and so small, helps to the give the story its joyous, unpredictable air, and makes it such a fun read.
Most of the technical aspects of the story are given at least a veneer of scientific plausibility. One intriguing aspect of the story is the ability of the scientists to monitor anything in their entire universe, to "zoom in" on individuals on any planet anywhere. This aspect echoes some ideas from Frank Tipler's book, The Physics of Immortality: Modern Cosmology, God and the Resurrection of the Dead.
There are many social aspects to the story that seem implausible; how an experiment of this magnitude could be started by a single scientist, or how such an amazing array of new technologies necessary for the experiment could be brought together for the first time by that scientist, or why a carpenter with no scientific background would be picked up as an assistant. But the fact that the experiment was simultaneously so big and so small, helps to the give the story its joyous, unpredictable air, and makes it such a fun read.
Most of the technical aspects of the story are given at least a veneer of scientific plausibility. One intriguing aspect of the story is the ability of the scientists to monitor anything in their entire universe, to "zoom in" on individuals on any planet anywhere. This aspect echoes some ideas from Frank Tipler's book, The Physics of Immortality: Modern Cosmology, God and the Resurrection of the Dead.
November 3, 2011
Jason Matthew’s the Little Universe is a work of art, not only as his book’s cover depicts, but as its content reveals. A group of scientists, with the help of an anthropomorphically interesting computer, create a miniature universe in a lab. As the little universe grows exponentially, the group microscopically observes degrees of life and development on numerous discovered planets. The group itself then begins a journey of technological, as well as spiritual growth.
Using accurate terminology from astronomy, cosmology and applied physics, Jason engages the reader with believable scenarios of varying evolutionary paths that life—humanity—can potentially take. Interweaved with the scientific are the spiritual, metaphysical queries of life as well: What is consciousness? Can it transcend matter, distance, and time? Is there a higher evolutionary position we are all destined to arrive at—individually and collectively? Is life intended to be more? These are some of the questions underlying the themes of this unique work.
This is an interesting and engaging story that I think emulates mankind’s dichotomous position in history today: that of simultaneously seeing the benefits, as well as the destructive side of growth and technology, and weighing these in the balance as we all ask: is there more than just this material life, and what is my part in it?
Good job Jason, looking forward to the Little Universe’s sequel.
G. F. Smith
www.gfsmithbooks.com
Using accurate terminology from astronomy, cosmology and applied physics, Jason engages the reader with believable scenarios of varying evolutionary paths that life—humanity—can potentially take. Interweaved with the scientific are the spiritual, metaphysical queries of life as well: What is consciousness? Can it transcend matter, distance, and time? Is there a higher evolutionary position we are all destined to arrive at—individually and collectively? Is life intended to be more? These are some of the questions underlying the themes of this unique work.
This is an interesting and engaging story that I think emulates mankind’s dichotomous position in history today: that of simultaneously seeing the benefits, as well as the destructive side of growth and technology, and weighing these in the balance as we all ask: is there more than just this material life, and what is my part in it?
Good job Jason, looking forward to the Little Universe’s sequel.
G. F. Smith
www.gfsmithbooks.com
September 1, 2011
Though touted as a "spiritual novel," this book really can appeal to all people interested in existentialism, evolution, creationism, sci-fi, science, and more!
Imagine being able to create a self-contained universe in a room, and being able to monitor how it evolves and changes throughout millions of years while you are only experiencing days - that is the intriguing concept behind this book. Would you want to learn more about spirituality? Or scientific advancement? Or human nature? Evolution? Something else?
All those views are held by the various scientists and staff working on this large project. As a reader, you are drawn in and asked to examine your own beliefs about life and what true advancement as a race really looks like.
The characters are remarkably developed, and feel like they could be someone in your own life. The situation is made more believable by the in-depth use of scientific explanations - but they are all written in everyday language so that you don't have to be a scientist to understand what is happening.
I hate giving spoilers, so I will just say that there is a fun "stunner" three-quarters of the way through the book that will shock you - I usually can tell what will happen ahead of time, but this book actually surprised me!
Overall, this is beautifully written and well worth the read.
Imagine being able to create a self-contained universe in a room, and being able to monitor how it evolves and changes throughout millions of years while you are only experiencing days - that is the intriguing concept behind this book. Would you want to learn more about spirituality? Or scientific advancement? Or human nature? Evolution? Something else?
All those views are held by the various scientists and staff working on this large project. As a reader, you are drawn in and asked to examine your own beliefs about life and what true advancement as a race really looks like.
The characters are remarkably developed, and feel like they could be someone in your own life. The situation is made more believable by the in-depth use of scientific explanations - but they are all written in everyday language so that you don't have to be a scientist to understand what is happening.
I hate giving spoilers, so I will just say that there is a fun "stunner" three-quarters of the way through the book that will shock you - I usually can tell what will happen ahead of time, but this book actually surprised me!
Overall, this is beautifully written and well worth the read.
February 18, 2013
Wow, loved this book.
For me, The Little Universe is a beautiful, deep and moving experience. Matthews has a gift for flowing, artful prose and vivid characters--Jim especially had me transfixed. The plot twist towards the end is masterful and completely spun my brain around inside my head. That was awesome.
The ending is brilliant as well and I'm looking forward to reading the sequel, "Jim's Life."
This book took me awhile to read, not because I wasn't captivated, intrigued and mesmerized, but exactly FOR those reasons. I always read a lot of books at the same time; it works for me and I love it. The Little Universe is a beautiful story, a treasure really. A unique world I could tap into from time to time to absorb the incredible sense of wonder and intrigue. This inspiring story made me think and was a ton of fun; I had a blast reading it. I didn't want it to end and was sad when it did, but also elated for Jim. Great, great story,
For me, The Little Universe is a beautiful, deep and moving experience. Matthews has a gift for flowing, artful prose and vivid characters--Jim especially had me transfixed. The plot twist towards the end is masterful and completely spun my brain around inside my head. That was awesome.
The ending is brilliant as well and I'm looking forward to reading the sequel, "Jim's Life."
This book took me awhile to read, not because I wasn't captivated, intrigued and mesmerized, but exactly FOR those reasons. I always read a lot of books at the same time; it works for me and I love it. The Little Universe is a beautiful story, a treasure really. A unique world I could tap into from time to time to absorb the incredible sense of wonder and intrigue. This inspiring story made me think and was a ton of fun; I had a blast reading it. I didn't want it to end and was sad when it did, but also elated for Jim. Great, great story,
September 10, 2019
Difficult to put down
This book has such a great concept, and more importantly, a great delivery. So many times I have read a book that had a great concept, only to be disappointed. I was not disappointed with this.
The writing style is easy going and flows very well. Any of the more scientific aspects are explained in an easy to understand way, but doesn't slow the pace of the book.
Cannot recommend this book enough.
This book has such a great concept, and more importantly, a great delivery. So many times I have read a book that had a great concept, only to be disappointed. I was not disappointed with this.
The writing style is easy going and flows very well. Any of the more scientific aspects are explained in an easy to understand way, but doesn't slow the pace of the book.
Cannot recommend this book enough.
September 16, 2011
A Scientist achieves his goal of creating a miniature universe in a lab. But not only are galaxies, stars and planets formed but life establishes itself in this universe. The Scientist, who has been an atheist all his life, gradually questions his views on creation. I enjoyed this book which raised questions of science, creation, evolution and religion.
September 24, 2011
As an atheist, reading this book bring a creative light to a lifetime long argument that everyone has been part of at one time or another. By taking the idea of creationism and applying it through science, the author makes you think about what if someone did make us, whether you look at it as did God make us, or our we a small universe in a science experiment gone right.
August 26, 2011
This book is mostly dialogue and idea driven. The dialogue flowed reasonably well, and I liked some of the ideas. The story gets a bit ragged towards the end, but otherwise, it was worth reading if you like philosophical sci-fi.
September 9, 2014
an amazing book. I did not want to put it down but to go to the next and then the next page to see how it would turn out. I cannot say enough about how impactful the book is on many levels. Makes me want to look into the subconscious.
September 9, 2011
excellent book i loved it looking forward to the sequel
May 15, 2012
Loved it!!
November 13, 2016
kinda entertaining.novel plot. Sometimes I want my reading to grab and hold me , other times, its just an way to fall asleep. This is more of the latter.
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