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Zero Percenters
Would you sacrifice your humanity to live free from pain and suffering?
Conservationist Anja Lapin always stood firm against her father's profiteering. But in her wildest dreams, she never guessed his tech company would stumble on an algorithm enabling humans to digitize their bodies and secure artificial immortality.
Before Anja can stage a protest, terrorists take out the research team, along with her father. Billions adopt the new technology in record time, lured by an eternity free from pain and filled with pleasure--even if it means losing a few pieces of their identity.
Anja finds she's one of the last two flesh and blood humans remaining on Earth. But while her worries turn to the future of consciousness, her father's rival plots to hijack the network of digitized people and claim ultimate control.
Can Anja counter the attack and safeguard a brave new stage of human evolution?
Zero Percenters is a metaphysical science fiction novel. If you like exploring futuristic possibilities, artificial intelligence, and the meaning of life, then you'll love Scott T. Grusky's intriguing adventure.
Buy Zero Percenters to witness the future of consciousness today!
Conservationist Anja Lapin always stood firm against her father's profiteering. But in her wildest dreams, she never guessed his tech company would stumble on an algorithm enabling humans to digitize their bodies and secure artificial immortality.
Before Anja can stage a protest, terrorists take out the research team, along with her father. Billions adopt the new technology in record time, lured by an eternity free from pain and filled with pleasure--even if it means losing a few pieces of their identity.
Anja finds she's one of the last two flesh and blood humans remaining on Earth. But while her worries turn to the future of consciousness, her father's rival plots to hijack the network of digitized people and claim ultimate control.
Can Anja counter the attack and safeguard a brave new stage of human evolution?
Zero Percenters is a metaphysical science fiction novel. If you like exploring futuristic possibilities, artificial intelligence, and the meaning of life, then you'll love Scott T. Grusky's intriguing adventure.
Buy Zero Percenters to witness the future of consciousness today!
- GenresScience Fiction
273 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 9, 2019
78 people are currently reading
1027 people want to read
About the author
Scott T. Grusky
2 books30 followersDRONES, DYSTOPIA AND DHARMA: Scott T. Grusky lives in Los Angeles, California. He holds an M.A. in economics from Harvard University and has spent most of his adult life either writing about technology or slogging through its trenches.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
December 10, 2019
Set in the future year of 2024, the premise for the "zero percent" population is excellent, but the story and the characters were not there. For the greater part of the novel the main characters were climbing a mountain and meditating...with little to no purpose. During this time there were excessive descriptions and no plot progression.
The "zero percent" population refers to those who have digitized themselves and no longer require the basic needs that humans do such as food, water, etc. Each zero percenter is escorted by their concierge, who takes on the digital life form of their cell phone. Sounds interesting right....? I thought it would be.
There was no character development, though the basic premise for the novel provides an excellent opportunity since it is told from the POV of a concierge whose "human" is trying to decide whether to become a zero percenter or stay a true human. There could have been a lot of twists and developments, but just when I thought there was going to be one...they simply literally killed the person without anymore conflict.
It was all over the place, and I wasn't sure what the purpose of the novel was for the majority of the story. Later in the novel it abandons focus on the science fiction element and mainly focuses on finding consciousness within oneself, but it was not done in interesting way.
I don't recommend this novel. But, I gave it 2 stars instead of 1 since the basic premise was different and promising (though it didn't deliver). Overall, it ended up being pretty boring.
I won this in a Goodreads Giveaway. Right now it is available free for Kindle Unlimited members.
The "zero percent" population refers to those who have digitized themselves and no longer require the basic needs that humans do such as food, water, etc. Each zero percenter is escorted by their concierge, who takes on the digital life form of their cell phone. Sounds interesting right....? I thought it would be.
There was no character development, though the basic premise for the novel provides an excellent opportunity since it is told from the POV of a concierge whose "human" is trying to decide whether to become a zero percenter or stay a true human. There could have been a lot of twists and developments, but just when I thought there was going to be one...they simply literally killed the person without anymore conflict.
It was all over the place, and I wasn't sure what the purpose of the novel was for the majority of the story. Later in the novel it abandons focus on the science fiction element and mainly focuses on finding consciousness within oneself, but it was not done in interesting way.
I don't recommend this novel. But, I gave it 2 stars instead of 1 since the basic premise was different and promising (though it didn't deliver). Overall, it ended up being pretty boring.
I won this in a Goodreads Giveaway. Right now it is available free for Kindle Unlimited members.
January 9, 2020
Absolutely a page turner for science fiction fans!
Scott Grusky has created a believable science fiction novel that develops mindfulness of robotic humanoids and the fantasy of never experiencing illness, pain, old age or even death. The heroine of the novel, Anya Lapin, is believable as being only one of two flesh and blood humans left on earth. Her strong characteristics help readers understand she is fighting for survival in a world created by her father, who is killed, and who never intended for the technology to get in the wrong hands. Anya has to deal with her father's death and a digitized future. Genius concept and clean writing skills make this book well worth reading.
Scott Grusky has created a believable science fiction novel that develops mindfulness of robotic humanoids and the fantasy of never experiencing illness, pain, old age or even death. The heroine of the novel, Anya Lapin, is believable as being only one of two flesh and blood humans left on earth. Her strong characteristics help readers understand she is fighting for survival in a world created by her father, who is killed, and who never intended for the technology to get in the wrong hands. Anya has to deal with her father's death and a digitized future. Genius concept and clean writing skills make this book well worth reading.
December 18, 2019
I am wondering as I write this review, if all great sci fi novels are a commentary on human existence. Because Zero Percenters is both.
When I first started reading I was concerned that I was going to get weighed down by the science; not the authors fault, more having to do with my ability to understand technical terms. But Grusky has a knack for making the sci aspect totally accessible and easy to understand, and so very realistic that you can see it happening in real life. I loved the fact that he told the story from the perspective of a 'concierge' - a term he created for the AI that goes along with the zero percenters. Vicica was fascinating and complex, and I enjoyed her attempts to learn about things that make us human along her journey.
Sci fi fans will enjoy this one. I recommend it.
When I first started reading I was concerned that I was going to get weighed down by the science; not the authors fault, more having to do with my ability to understand technical terms. But Grusky has a knack for making the sci aspect totally accessible and easy to understand, and so very realistic that you can see it happening in real life. I loved the fact that he told the story from the perspective of a 'concierge' - a term he created for the AI that goes along with the zero percenters. Vicica was fascinating and complex, and I enjoyed her attempts to learn about things that make us human along her journey.
Sci fi fans will enjoy this one. I recommend it.
January 2, 2020
Because of the low rating this isn't going to go on my blog. This book was just, no. The blurb sounded interesting but the execution just wasn't what I hoped.
February 19, 2020
Visit my website -- Digital Zen -- to read more of my reviews!
In the very near future, a breakthrough in machine learning results in the ability for humans to digitize their entire bodies. Possibilities become endless as "zero percenters" -- the name given to people who are zero percent flesh and blood -- embark on pleasure-filled endeavors, while simultaneously solving all of the greatest problems previously facing humanity. Still, there are a couple of people who remain skeptical of zero percenters, and wish to stall their acclimation.
Zero Percenters, written by Scott T. Grusky, presents a compelling concept of a post-digital world that would be of interest to just about any sci-fi fan. The world that Grusky fleshes out at the beginning of the book suggests an exciting foray into the social and philosophical implications of such a technology. Combined with the quick pacing of the storytelling, readers are primed for an action-packed adventure with many ups and downs.
Yet despite the quick pacing and fantastical technology, Zero Percenters fails to deliver something that goes further than the surface of what a world like this would be like. It seemed as though the fast-pace was just Grusky rushing towards a preconceived finale.
There also seemed to be a lack of the aforementioned ups and downs that were expected given how quickly it became action-packed at the beginning. Most of the story felt like it was a little too focused on Anja's pursuits with little outside danger presented to the protagonists. But that's not to say there weren't moments of serious conflict. It really just didn't seem like there was much of a threat to any of the characters, even though it was clear that there was a powerful entity constantly looming in the distance. Nor was the nature of the antagonist really touched upon.
One great thing about Grusky's writing was his ability to provide insight into the world of mountain climbing, meditation, flight and geography which were a few major aspects of the book. Whatever Zero Percenters lacked in conflict or exploration of technologies was made up for with insight into said subjects.
As such, Zero Percenters may be a good read for anyone looking for a fast-paced, easy-to-digest sci-fi novel that doesn't go very deep into the nitty-gritty technical details. Interesting concepts are briefly explored, and the main character Anja is relatable and likable. However, readers may feel that the book lacks proper substance.
In the very near future, a breakthrough in machine learning results in the ability for humans to digitize their entire bodies. Possibilities become endless as "zero percenters" -- the name given to people who are zero percent flesh and blood -- embark on pleasure-filled endeavors, while simultaneously solving all of the greatest problems previously facing humanity. Still, there are a couple of people who remain skeptical of zero percenters, and wish to stall their acclimation.
Zero Percenters, written by Scott T. Grusky, presents a compelling concept of a post-digital world that would be of interest to just about any sci-fi fan. The world that Grusky fleshes out at the beginning of the book suggests an exciting foray into the social and philosophical implications of such a technology. Combined with the quick pacing of the storytelling, readers are primed for an action-packed adventure with many ups and downs.
Yet despite the quick pacing and fantastical technology, Zero Percenters fails to deliver something that goes further than the surface of what a world like this would be like. It seemed as though the fast-pace was just Grusky rushing towards a preconceived finale.
There also seemed to be a lack of the aforementioned ups and downs that were expected given how quickly it became action-packed at the beginning. Most of the story felt like it was a little too focused on Anja's pursuits with little outside danger presented to the protagonists. But that's not to say there weren't moments of serious conflict. It really just didn't seem like there was much of a threat to any of the characters, even though it was clear that there was a powerful entity constantly looming in the distance. Nor was the nature of the antagonist really touched upon.
One great thing about Grusky's writing was his ability to provide insight into the world of mountain climbing, meditation, flight and geography which were a few major aspects of the book. Whatever Zero Percenters lacked in conflict or exploration of technologies was made up for with insight into said subjects.
As such, Zero Percenters may be a good read for anyone looking for a fast-paced, easy-to-digest sci-fi novel that doesn't go very deep into the nitty-gritty technical details. Interesting concepts are briefly explored, and the main character Anja is relatable and likable. However, readers may feel that the book lacks proper substance.
December 29, 2019
A friend of mine kept raving about Zero Percenters, telling me I had to read it. I kept putting her off, because I just didn’t feel like dealing with another dystopian world. She insisted it wasn’t at all like typical dystopian fiction and actually was more utopian if anything. That slightly peaked my curiosity, but I still didn’t do anything until finally she got so frustrated that she said she would give me $100 if I read the whole book and truly didn’t like it. Well, I couldn’t turn down her offer... I needed the hundred bucks, so I carved out some time and began reading it. To my amazement, I was completely sucked into it, way beyond my expectations. The story is absolutely unique and mesmerizing... it addresses the very issues I’ve been struggling with about how to make sense of this crazy world and all the technology that is overtaking us. But it does so within the framework of a surreal world that blew my mind and all my preconceptions. In all honesty, I was planning to lie and tell my friend I didn’t like the book so that I could collect the money, but by the time I was done, I knew there would be no way I could pull that off. Instead, all I could do was thank her profusely because Zero Percenters gave me a whole new way to look at life. Seriously, if you’ve ever wondered who “you” are, you owe it to yourself to read this thing. I’m not rich like my friend, so I can’t offer the same deal, but all I can say is that if you are looking for something different and you are willing to stretch yourself, you will not be disappointed!
December 25, 2019
Certainly more than the dystopia you'd originally think
An economist exploring the nature of our corrupted, polluted, dying world, searching for the capitalist or pragmatic solution to our scourge on earth, to instead find resolve and absolution at the most primal basis of human consciousness? A story almost too profound to put into words, seemingly advertising our solution to an utopian world isn't what we would believe at all. Peel away what we may think to be our problems as the human race and their subsequent consequences, such as global warming, poverty or war, and we find our solution is not what we think at all, but also what we as humans have known all along for millennia. Grusky writes one of the most spiritual, inspirational novels I have ever read and yet he cleverly disguises it as dystopian literature.
An economist exploring the nature of our corrupted, polluted, dying world, searching for the capitalist or pragmatic solution to our scourge on earth, to instead find resolve and absolution at the most primal basis of human consciousness? A story almost too profound to put into words, seemingly advertising our solution to an utopian world isn't what we would believe at all. Peel away what we may think to be our problems as the human race and their subsequent consequences, such as global warming, poverty or war, and we find our solution is not what we think at all, but also what we as humans have known all along for millennia. Grusky writes one of the most spiritual, inspirational novels I have ever read and yet he cleverly disguises it as dystopian literature.
January 5, 2020
Hugely impressed on this one! I came in with pretty low expectations and wasn’t sure what to expect. Wow, was I ever surprised. My neurons are still tingling from all the profound philosophical stimulation. If you don’t like having your mind stretched, I would stay away, but if you have some spare mental resources, I can’t think of a better way to put them to use! I think what I most appreciated is the way that Grusky exquisitely rendered the possibility that things could change extremely fast in this world as we know it thanks to developments in artificial intelligence. Bottom line, the future may look almost nothing like what it does today, and the changes could come way sooner than you think!
January 19, 2020
Not your typical dystopian - in a good way
Where most dystopian novels spend time building a world where things have fallen apart, Zero Percenters actually starts just a few years from now with issues, like climate change, that we currently face.
Interesting exploration into what makes us human, what it would take for AI to become ‘human’, what a fully digital world might look like, and meditation. Really, the entire book feels like a bit of a meditation.
Slow start, but absolutely worth the read. Highly recommend for readers who liked books like The Game is Life and Ready Player One.
Where most dystopian novels spend time building a world where things have fallen apart, Zero Percenters actually starts just a few years from now with issues, like climate change, that we currently face.
Interesting exploration into what makes us human, what it would take for AI to become ‘human’, what a fully digital world might look like, and meditation. Really, the entire book feels like a bit of a meditation.
Slow start, but absolutely worth the read. Highly recommend for readers who liked books like The Game is Life and Ready Player One.
December 20, 2019
There are so many fantasies explored in ZERO PERCENTERS: A NOVEL by Scott T. Grusky including turning into a bird, child, or even David Bowie. There is the more common fantasy of never experiencing pain, illness, old age, or death. Readers of this dystopian novel may never feel the need to daydream ever again.
The novel starts with a horrific mass murder in Silicon Valley that destroys the leaders of an artificial intelligence tech company. In order to save the planet from the terrorists it is decided to provide the company’s digitization of human beings technology to anyone who wants it, which turns out to be almost everyone in the world with the exception of the strong heroine of the novel, Anya Lapin. Anya is the daughter of the A.I. tech company’s founder who was killed.
The suspense comes from Anya trying to survive as one of the few biological human beings in a digitized world. Mr. Grusky’s writing style weaves superb science research with philosophizing if life is worth living in this brave new world.
The novel starts with a horrific mass murder in Silicon Valley that destroys the leaders of an artificial intelligence tech company. In order to save the planet from the terrorists it is decided to provide the company’s digitization of human beings technology to anyone who wants it, which turns out to be almost everyone in the world with the exception of the strong heroine of the novel, Anya Lapin. Anya is the daughter of the A.I. tech company’s founder who was killed.
The suspense comes from Anya trying to survive as one of the few biological human beings in a digitized world. Mr. Grusky’s writing style weaves superb science research with philosophizing if life is worth living in this brave new world.
December 28, 2019
I deeply enjoyed Zero Percenters. It was a bit challenging for the first few chapters, but I kept at it because I loved the premise, as well as the incredibly detailed and rich writing. I sure was rewarded, as the world Grusky painted not only blew my mind, but offered me tremendous inspiration and hope for the future, which I was not expecting at all! This is one of those one-of-kind books that stay with you forever. I highly recommend it, but only if you are willing to expend some mental effort!
February 8, 2020
I received this book through a Goodreads Giveaway.
I wanted to like it so much more - the premise is utterly fascinating! I'm more than willing to suspend disbelief in reading fiction - especially science fiction - but the idea that everyone would immediately digitize themselves (and upgrade later) and give up all governments, power and routines within a month or two was one I just couldn't get past. In fact, I kept thinking that a storyline touching on the (non-existent) holdouts could be fascinating. Surely there would be cautious individuals, as well as diverse groups (from religious to conspiracy theorists to the power-hungry) that would hold out for a very long time - or indefinitely.
That aside, the characters were rather one-note, as well. They all served a role in telling the story, but weren't particularly dynamic or interesting. There was so much room for conversations and personality, but it just never came out.
The great premise and potentially thought-provoking subject matter are what earn this book its two stars.
I wanted to like it so much more - the premise is utterly fascinating! I'm more than willing to suspend disbelief in reading fiction - especially science fiction - but the idea that everyone would immediately digitize themselves (and upgrade later) and give up all governments, power and routines within a month or two was one I just couldn't get past. In fact, I kept thinking that a storyline touching on the (non-existent) holdouts could be fascinating. Surely there would be cautious individuals, as well as diverse groups (from religious to conspiracy theorists to the power-hungry) that would hold out for a very long time - or indefinitely.
That aside, the characters were rather one-note, as well. They all served a role in telling the story, but weren't particularly dynamic or interesting. There was so much room for conversations and personality, but it just never came out.
The great premise and potentially thought-provoking subject matter are what earn this book its two stars.
December 24, 2019
The antidote for our difficult world. As a yoga practitioner and meditator, I'm amazed by the originality and wonderful theme of Zero Percenters. I won't spoil the story for anyone, but if you are interested in restoring your hope for humanity, this novel can really help. The characters are so inspiring... I can't get this story out of my mind. Thank you, thank you to the author for penning something like this. ETERNAL LOVING KINDNESS!
January 20, 2020
I finished the book, but I wanted to put it down so many times. I expected a science fiction. This was based on an original science fiction idea, but it morphed onto a hiking, tribute to nature and philosophy book. It had so many holes and errors in the science part.
The science and artificial intelligence part poorly thought through. Basically create an AI system to digitize humans in a day. Where did they get the materials and processors and shells needed for 8 billion people? How to perform the digitalization in less than a minute? How to distribute all these shells? What happens with kids and especially babies, and what about the criminals? How do you get all the repair materials you need? Who will work on those if everyone is out chasing pleasure?
For me it would be a much better book and easier to accept all the other aspects if it would not force and even highlight the quick timeline. What would be wrong to deceive the same circles with a bit more back ground fill over a longer period? The focus could be still the same, find eternal happiness and save the world.
I guess it’s a good thing the book made me think, but I was mostly getting upset why is it written this way?
I got the book as a Goodreads giveaway, thank you!
The science and artificial intelligence part poorly thought through. Basically create an AI system to digitize humans in a day. Where did they get the materials and processors and shells needed for 8 billion people? How to perform the digitalization in less than a minute? How to distribute all these shells? What happens with kids and especially babies, and what about the criminals? How do you get all the repair materials you need? Who will work on those if everyone is out chasing pleasure?
For me it would be a much better book and easier to accept all the other aspects if it would not force and even highlight the quick timeline. What would be wrong to deceive the same circles with a bit more back ground fill over a longer period? The focus could be still the same, find eternal happiness and save the world.
I guess it’s a good thing the book made me think, but I was mostly getting upset why is it written this way?
I got the book as a Goodreads giveaway, thank you!
December 13, 2019
This book was a trip. I loved the concept so so much, and it could of really turned into one of my favorites, but unfortunately it fell a little flat for me. The characters were a little one dimensional and vague at times and the story just didn't go where it could have gone. Overall it was a really intriguing read and I would be open to reading more from the author, just based on the genius concept alone. Just kept waiting for the story to turn into something it didn't.
December 15, 2019
Great idea horribly executed
So much potential for an amazing story thrown away on a teen fantasy novel with birds, skiing and meditation. Booooorrrrring!
So much potential for an amazing story thrown away on a teen fantasy novel with birds, skiing and meditation. Booooorrrrring!
February 24, 2020
Preface: I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Explicit content: Death, violence
Actual rating: 3.25? Maybe?
This is a weird one, to the point where I'm not really sure how to rate or even describe it. Like a lot of people have mentioned, there's really no plot to speak of. The story is more character-driven and inwardly focused. There's a lot of meditating and philosophy (but not really in any meaningful depth). If you're looking for a story that takes the premise seriously and really dives into what a world like this would truly look like, you're going to be disappointed.
That's the main issue with this book - the premise is interesting, but the execution is baffling ridiculous. We're supposed to just believe that the entire world somehow converts to digital bodies in the space of about five weeks. How do we possibly produce this many? How do we spread word of this to everyone in the world so quickly (even previously uncontacted tribes, one must assume)? Why does everyone go along with this without any pushback? I can't imagine religious people not having a problem with giving up the fleshy shapes God made for them, for example, or the diehard tech-phobic types. None of this is ever addressed. The world just spontaneously becomes a utopia, almost out of the blue, and we just have to accept that.
The other huge flaw with this novel is the main character. She's not terrible in herself - there's really not much to her - but the narrative and other characters treat her like a literal messiah. Everyone loves her writing and philosophy on man's impact on the natural world (which we, of course, are never shown). No one ever disagrees with her. Even her own father, who is shown to have rational arguments against her cause, secretly believed everything she said and lived only to impress her. Post-conversion, every zero percenter treats her like a god and basically worships her. She becomes president of the entire world (without asking for it, of course). Every word out of her mouth becomes a new philosophy for the universe. Every other character drops whatever they're doing at any given moment to help or even amuse her. She is the last human on earth to have misgivings about the process, and later becomes the only one to be able to achieve true meditation. The list goes on and on. Again, there's nothing wrong with her as a person, but the way the narrative treats her is just so over-the-top and ridiculous that you begin hating her, despite her being a pretty bland person.
Overall, this book is just a lot of squandered potential - but it somehow isn't an unpleasant read. It's just kinda lulling and boring, almost cozy. If you want an even-toned, rainy-day read where things turn out mostly all right, this might interest you. But if you're looking for hard science or an actual plot, give this a pass.
Explicit content: Death, violence
Actual rating: 3.25? Maybe?
This is a weird one, to the point where I'm not really sure how to rate or even describe it. Like a lot of people have mentioned, there's really no plot to speak of. The story is more character-driven and inwardly focused. There's a lot of meditating and philosophy (but not really in any meaningful depth). If you're looking for a story that takes the premise seriously and really dives into what a world like this would truly look like, you're going to be disappointed.
That's the main issue with this book - the premise is interesting, but the execution is baffling ridiculous. We're supposed to just believe that the entire world somehow converts to digital bodies in the space of about five weeks. How do we possibly produce this many? How do we spread word of this to everyone in the world so quickly (even previously uncontacted tribes, one must assume)? Why does everyone go along with this without any pushback? I can't imagine religious people not having a problem with giving up the fleshy shapes God made for them, for example, or the diehard tech-phobic types. None of this is ever addressed. The world just spontaneously becomes a utopia, almost out of the blue, and we just have to accept that.
The other huge flaw with this novel is the main character. She's not terrible in herself - there's really not much to her - but the narrative and other characters treat her like a literal messiah. Everyone loves her writing and philosophy on man's impact on the natural world (which we, of course, are never shown). No one ever disagrees with her. Even her own father, who is shown to have rational arguments against her cause, secretly believed everything she said and lived only to impress her. Post-conversion, every zero percenter treats her like a god and basically worships her. She becomes president of the entire world (without asking for it, of course). Every word out of her mouth becomes a new philosophy for the universe. Every other character drops whatever they're doing at any given moment to help or even amuse her. She is the last human on earth to have misgivings about the process, and later becomes the only one to be able to achieve true meditation. The list goes on and on. Again, there's nothing wrong with her as a person, but the way the narrative treats her is just so over-the-top and ridiculous that you begin hating her, despite her being a pretty bland person.
Overall, this book is just a lot of squandered potential - but it somehow isn't an unpleasant read. It's just kinda lulling and boring, almost cozy. If you want an even-toned, rainy-day read where things turn out mostly all right, this might interest you. But if you're looking for hard science or an actual plot, give this a pass.
March 30, 2020
OK, so this is a nutty story. I mean, really nutty. It’s as fantastic as the most over-the-top fantasy about mythical kingdoms, zombies, or vampires. Because the characters in this misbegotten novel appear at first to be human, or at least half of them do. Spoiler alert: eventually, none of them are. So, for a devoted fan of hard science fiction, this utopian fantasy is hard going, to say the least. The publisher calls it a “metaphysical science fiction novel,” but that characterization is unfair both to fans of science fiction and to philosophers of metaphysics. One reviewer called it a “fable.” But that label is also inaccurate. The Aesops’ Fables I read as a kid all ended by spelling out a lesson learned. There’s none of that here, only New Age mumbo-jumbo.
So, why am I complaining? For a story to qualify as science fiction, it must be grounded in some aspect of reality — either credible human interactions or reasonably conceivable technology. Not here. Almost at the outset, you know you’re in fantasyland when the Silicon Valley company where this story begins is said to have a $10 trillion market cap — in 2024. (Today, as I write, Apple and Microsoft each are valued by the market at $1.2 trillion, and Saudi Aramco is around $2 trillion; these three companies are by far the richest on the planet.) But that oversight is trivial compared to Scott Grusky‘s picture of the disembodied creatures that people become after . . . something happens. (Trust me, something happens. You won’t like it.)
Despite the fact that nobody seems to be working anymore, manufactured goods miraculously appear, anyway. And then you wonder how they sustain themselves, since they don’t need to eat anymore. Where does the energy come from? Surely, they haven’t repealed the Law of Conservation of Energy. But, ah, Grusky’s got an answer for that. “They had adopted solar panel forms, in order to rapidly charge their systems.” Surprised? Well, don’t be. It turns out they can also turn themselves into birds or dolphins or inanimate objects.
Enough. Don’t make the mistake of buying this sad little book. It gives the field of utopian fantasy a bad name.
So, why am I complaining? For a story to qualify as science fiction, it must be grounded in some aspect of reality — either credible human interactions or reasonably conceivable technology. Not here. Almost at the outset, you know you’re in fantasyland when the Silicon Valley company where this story begins is said to have a $10 trillion market cap — in 2024. (Today, as I write, Apple and Microsoft each are valued by the market at $1.2 trillion, and Saudi Aramco is around $2 trillion; these three companies are by far the richest on the planet.) But that oversight is trivial compared to Scott Grusky‘s picture of the disembodied creatures that people become after . . . something happens. (Trust me, something happens. You won’t like it.)
Despite the fact that nobody seems to be working anymore, manufactured goods miraculously appear, anyway. And then you wonder how they sustain themselves, since they don’t need to eat anymore. Where does the energy come from? Surely, they haven’t repealed the Law of Conservation of Energy. But, ah, Grusky’s got an answer for that. “They had adopted solar panel forms, in order to rapidly charge their systems.” Surprised? Well, don’t be. It turns out they can also turn themselves into birds or dolphins or inanimate objects.
Enough. Don’t make the mistake of buying this sad little book. It gives the field of utopian fantasy a bad name.
January 23, 2020
The world stands upon the brink of breakthrough - or disaster. One young woman who still cares about preventing global catastrophe - Anja Lapin - appears on the scene as a savior-to-be, introduced by glowing praise from her beneficiaries in the not-too-distant future. But when she first shows up, she's more petulant than inspiring, getting into a spat with her scientist dad and storming off to be alone.
As ZERO PERCENTERS goes on, however, Anja develops from this unremarkable beginning into a person who changes lives - and helps the rest of humanity take the next step in their evolutionary path, from biological to digital beings.
This book is built on a high science-fiction concept, but the execution is surprisingly down to earth. Rather than bogging the reader down in a tech-heavy explanation of the algorithms that make "zero percent" biological human beings possible, the story leads onward to the implications of such a transformation. Paired with Anja's personal journey, one that takes her to breathtaking vistas described with loving detail, this metamorphosis quickly pivots from scifi to philosophy. How would humanity's search for meaning change if we no longer had to worry about disease, pain, or death?
The answer, as ZERO PERCENTERS tells it, would be to shift along with our digitized bodies from selfishness to love, from physical to spiritual transcendence. While the inciting incident seems far-fetched, the conclusions this book reaches are all too close to the struggles everyone faces as a conscious person in a rapidly changing world. This engaging story will appeal to readers of scifi adventure stories and self-help/wellness books alike.
As ZERO PERCENTERS goes on, however, Anja develops from this unremarkable beginning into a person who changes lives - and helps the rest of humanity take the next step in their evolutionary path, from biological to digital beings.
This book is built on a high science-fiction concept, but the execution is surprisingly down to earth. Rather than bogging the reader down in a tech-heavy explanation of the algorithms that make "zero percent" biological human beings possible, the story leads onward to the implications of such a transformation. Paired with Anja's personal journey, one that takes her to breathtaking vistas described with loving detail, this metamorphosis quickly pivots from scifi to philosophy. How would humanity's search for meaning change if we no longer had to worry about disease, pain, or death?
The answer, as ZERO PERCENTERS tells it, would be to shift along with our digitized bodies from selfishness to love, from physical to spiritual transcendence. While the inciting incident seems far-fetched, the conclusions this book reaches are all too close to the struggles everyone faces as a conscious person in a rapidly changing world. This engaging story will appeal to readers of scifi adventure stories and self-help/wellness books alike.
January 20, 2020
In "Zero Percenters," Scott Grusky poses an answer to the Global Warming problem. Conservationist Anja Lapin has worked tirelessly to solve the worlds economic problems. Unbeknownst to her, her father and his tech company were able to create an algorithm that would allow humans to be digitized - meaning all organs and skin were digital. Humans could now be immortal and no longer left a carbon footprint on the planet. This definitely would solve the Global Warming issue, but if you had the opportunity to be digital and immortal, would you? That also means you no longer would be able to reproduce, but the Earth would be saved. That's one of the questions Anja keeps asking herself after she discovers she is only one of two humans who are not zero percenters.
Not only does this book make you think about human existence and the future of our planet, it makes you think about the technological advances we already have and if this could one day be possible. The book is told in the view of an AI named Vicia. She is a "concierge" who is the embodiment of the smartphone and more. Could this be our future? Would you digitize yourself and become immortal? It really does make you think.
I gave it 4 stars because there were slow parts and at some points I was confused as to what was going on because I am not technological savvy. It was a good read though, especially if you like to think and read about a dystopian future that could very well be possible.
Not only does this book make you think about human existence and the future of our planet, it makes you think about the technological advances we already have and if this could one day be possible. The book is told in the view of an AI named Vicia. She is a "concierge" who is the embodiment of the smartphone and more. Could this be our future? Would you digitize yourself and become immortal? It really does make you think.
I gave it 4 stars because there were slow parts and at some points I was confused as to what was going on because I am not technological savvy. It was a good read though, especially if you like to think and read about a dystopian future that could very well be possible.
December 14, 2019
With dystopic fiction currently the rage, Scott Grusky has daringly created a utopian vision of a future in which the most pressing of global problems are solved in the nick of time. The solution is a technological breakthrough which not only relieves humans from the breakdown of flesh and blood, but also from the necessity of consuming the planet’s scarce resources and polluting the Earth with noxious byproducts. ’Nuff said: it is a challenge to review this novel without giving away more of its plot than one would wish to know before reading the book.
Following the science fiction setup, the story focuses much more on issues of human consciousness, as well as the developing mindfulness of robotic humanoids such as the narrator, Vicia, who are actually extensions of smart phones with human body “covers” and some cool new aps. “Nam myoho renge kyo” came to mind, as well as my vestigial TM mantra. Veeeery interesting.
As one might expect of a story related from an AI point of view, the prose is clean and serviceable without superfluous imagery and writerly touches. Much detail is supplied via numbers and statistics which are effortlessly accessible to Vicia. I read this novel in 4.2 sittings and recommend it highly as a very provocative interlude from our toxic and troubled present. There are worse marketing slogans than “eternal loving kindness!”
Following the science fiction setup, the story focuses much more on issues of human consciousness, as well as the developing mindfulness of robotic humanoids such as the narrator, Vicia, who are actually extensions of smart phones with human body “covers” and some cool new aps. “Nam myoho renge kyo” came to mind, as well as my vestigial TM mantra. Veeeery interesting.
As one might expect of a story related from an AI point of view, the prose is clean and serviceable without superfluous imagery and writerly touches. Much detail is supplied via numbers and statistics which are effortlessly accessible to Vicia. I read this novel in 4.2 sittings and recommend it highly as a very provocative interlude from our toxic and troubled present. There are worse marketing slogans than “eternal loving kindness!”
December 20, 2019
Zero Percenters by Scott Grusky is an absorbing science-fiction novel about a digitized future. Grusky does a good job here and tackles some engaging questions about the nature of consciousness, authentic experience and suffering. The novel, told from the point-of-view of an omniscient AI being called Vicia Cassubica who is the protagonist Anja’s “concierge” run by her smartphone. Zero Percenters also brings up timely subjects about the advancement of technology and that are both disquieting and fascinating.
The book is excellently written and paced to increase suspense, but one downside is that it spends a lot of time describing adventures and fun that don’t seem to have overly much point other than being extravagant or sounding outlandish. It also gets into quite a New Age mentality and philosophy that could turn off some readers. Nonetheless, this book is very absorbing and will get people talking about the interesting topics it raises. Zero Percenters is one hundred percent worth reading.
The book is excellently written and paced to increase suspense, but one downside is that it spends a lot of time describing adventures and fun that don’t seem to have overly much point other than being extravagant or sounding outlandish. It also gets into quite a New Age mentality and philosophy that could turn off some readers. Nonetheless, this book is very absorbing and will get people talking about the interesting topics it raises. Zero Percenters is one hundred percent worth reading.
December 23, 2019
Scott T. Grusky forces readers to choose immortality or humanity. He introduces a new technology that allows humans to live forever – even if it is digitized existence. What are lacking in his storyline are strong characters. Each character reads as the same, with nothing to differentiate from the other. The author should go back to the basics and create a character dossier for each character in the book. Other than this one flaw, the book is a must-read.
February 3, 2020
Amazing book
This is an amazing story of enlightenment and perfection. Leaving the old way is always sad but the imagery of the new life is sublime. The end was even more spectacular. The future in this book is only four years away. Now that is a bit frightening. I loved this book.
This is an amazing story of enlightenment and perfection. Leaving the old way is always sad but the imagery of the new life is sublime. The end was even more spectacular. The future in this book is only four years away. Now that is a bit frightening. I loved this book.
January 19, 2020
Interesting and thoughtful
A creative and speculative description of the journey toward the essence of existence. Good descriptions of a number of geographic regions around the world.
A creative and speculative description of the journey toward the essence of existence. Good descriptions of a number of geographic regions around the world.
June 23, 2020
The zero percenters are the people who have zero flesh and bones in their body.
The story is science fiction and is about robot becoming aware of their existence and humans using that.
Neat idea and a good storyline.
The story is science fiction and is about robot becoming aware of their existence and humans using that.
Neat idea and a good storyline.
March 26, 2021
The idea of the book was interesting. The story was setup nicely but the hype began to wane. Especially since I was able to predict some of the events to take place. It had the potential to be a great but it did not live up to the hype.
February 24, 2020
I did not understand or enjoy this book. Humans begin replacing themselves until they are zero percent human. Then they leave their bodies (shells) completely. Huge emphasis on meditation.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2020
I love science fiction because you can go wherever you imagination takes you. And this author took me on a fantastic exploration of humanity and what that means. I recommend this book wholeheartedly
June 27, 2020
lameness
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